Ontlametse Phalatse who suffered from Progeria a rare genetic disorder which causes premature ageing has passed away.
Phalatse was the only known black female that suffered from the disorder but lost her battle last night at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital in Ga-Rankuwa, outside Tshwane.
Her death comes after Phalatse paid a courtesy call on the President on the eve of her 18th birthday last month. According to a statement released by the office of the Presidency, President Zuma had also invited Ms Phalatse and her mother Ms Bellone Phalatse, with whom the President shares his birthday, to join him in the celebration of his 75th birthday.
Zuma sends his heartfelt condolences to the family which reads, “Our lives were most touched by meeting Ontlametse last month. 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 are really proud of her. 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,” said President Zuma.
WATCH
