A 19-year-old girl in South Africa died from a highly uncommon genetic disorder that causes rapid body aging.

Influencer Beandri Booysen received a diagnosis of progeria, also known as Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS), a rare disorder that accelerates a child’s maturation.

Babies born with the syndrome look healthy at birth but begin to exhibit indications of premature aging during the first two years of life.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, progeria lowers a person’s development rate, impedes weight gain, and causes a variety of additional symptoms, such as hair loss, wrinkled skin, and the loss of fat beneath the skin.

Booysen, from South Africa, has a large social media following after she and her family shared their experience with thousands of others.

However, earlier this month (18 December), her family issued a Facebook message confirming her untimely death.

Her family founded ‘Beandri, Our Inspiration’ 15 years ago, announcing the loss of Beandri Booysen, one of South Africa’s most adored and inspirational young ladies, with great regret. Beandri was well-known for her vivacious personality and contagious laugh, but she was also the last surviving person in South Africa with progeria, a rare genetic disorder that causes infants to age prematurely.

“Despite the difficulties she endured, Beandri exuded optimism and excitement. She rose to prominence as a symbol of awareness for progeria and other special needs, inspiring thousands of people across the world.

“The Booysen family respectfully seeks privacy during this heartbreaking time in which they grieve the passing of their beloved Beandri.

“We will share further details regarding the memorial service in due course.”

According to The Independent, Beandri’s mother said on October 8 that her daughter had undergone heart surgery and thanked fans for their support.

Many people quickly expressed their sympathies on social media, with one person writing, “Prayers for the family for the loss of such a precious little young lady.”

Another person expressed their condolences to all those who loved her. She was very inspiring.”

Beandri’s ailment caused her body to age eight years, placing her age at about 152 years, according to The Mirror.

While progeria is a genetic condition, research suggests that it is not inherited and results from a spontaneous mutation in the LMNA gene, according to MedlinePlus.

There is no known cure for the illness; however, various therapies can help alleviate symptoms.