Inspiring TikTok Star Beandri Booysen Dies at 19 from Rare Aging Disease: ‘Radiated Hope and Joy’

TikTok star Beandri Booysen, known for her inspirational social media videos, has died. She was 19.

On Wednesday, Dec. 18, Beandri’s mom, Bea Booysen, confirmed on Facebook that the teenager had died. She suffered from Progeria — also known as Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome — a rare genetic condition that causes children to age prematurely.

Her post, which was translated into English from the original, was titled “In Loving Memory of Beandri Booysen.” She shared it on the “Beandri, Our Inspiration” group, which was set up by the family 15 years ago.

“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Beandri Booysen, one of South Africa’s most beloved and inspirational young women,” Bea wrote.

“Beandri was not only known for her sparkling personality and infectious laugh, but was also the last surviving person in South Africa to live with Progeria.”

Bea continued, “Despite the challenges she had to deal with, Beandri radiated hope and joy of life. She was a voice and a symbol of awareness for Progeria and other special needs, and inspired thousands with her unique spirit.”

Beandri has over 278,000 followers on TikTok and was regularly praised for her heartwarming videos, which have been watched hundreds of thousands of times.

A tribute video shared on the social media site had been watched over 300,000 times as of Thursday, Dec. 19.

“WE ALREADY MISS YOU SO MUCH😭,” a caption on the post read.

The sad news comes after Bea revealed on Facebook that her daughter would be undergoing heart surgery on Oct. 8, thanking fans for their “prayers and support.” After keeping fans updated on Beandri’s recovery, she revealed on Wednesday that her heart had stopped.

Messages poured in for the teenager on Bea’s tribute post, with one person writing, “Condolences to all her loved ones! She was a true inspiration ♥️”

Another added, “Prayers for the family for the loss of such a precious little young lady.”

“So sad. What an inspiration she was. Fly high with the angels sweet girl. ❤️💜🩵,” a third person wrote.

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According to the Progeria Research Foundation, there are an estimated 400 children living with the condition worldwide.

Per the Mayo Clinic the average life expectancy for a child with progeria is about 15 years though some may live to as much as 20 years.