Ontlametse Ntlami Phalatse, the teenager who lived with a rare ageing disease, has died.
The 18-year-old passed away yesterday evening at the Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital in Ga-Rankuwa‚ outside Pretoria.
According to a
this morning, Ontlametse experienced breathing difficulties yesterday and was rushed to Hebron Clinic before being referred to Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital.“The doctors did everything possible to save her but unfortunately she passed on. She was surrounded by her mother, brother, family members and friends,” the post reads.
Ontlametse was one of two South African girls living with Progeria‚ a rare genetic condition that causes premature ageing.
Her death comes shortly after she met President Jacob Zuma at his official residence, two days before her 18th birthday – a dream she had always had.
Zuma also passed his condolences on to Ontlametse’s mother and family.
“Our lives were most touched by meeting Ontlametse last month,” Zuma said.
“She was very special indeed. I was impressed by her sharp intellect, warm personality, brilliant ideas and her determination to use her condition to motivate others that they can achieve their goals regardless of any challenges.”
“A brave young fighter has fallen. May her spirit inspire all others living with disabilities or facing any difficulty, to soldier on as she did and live life to the fullest.
“We wish to convey our utmost condolences to her mother, her whole family and the Ontlametse Phalatse Trust for this sad loss. May her soul rest in eternal peace,” Zuma said in his statement.
He also reiterated his commitment that Ontlametse’s family will get the home he promised them.
She was regarded by many as a beacon of hope, inspiration and a miracle child after doctors predicted that she would only survive until her 14th birthday.