“If your gift is to encourage others, use it." ~ Romans 12:8
Turning 18 and accepting the foray into adulthood is a huge
step. With this milestone comes more independence, responsibility… and courage.
But for this girl, her birthday was an even more precious occasion. She was still
alive.
Against all odds, it was a scenario her doctors never
predicted. Beandri Booysen was born with Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria (HGPS), a
rare, progressive, genetic disorder that causes rapid aging and osteoporosis. Progeria
comes from the Greek word ‘geras’ which means "old age."
Children with the
disease experience slow growth and poor weight gain. Progeria does not affect
intellectual development. Sufferers, however, develop shrunken features, brittle
bones, wrinkled skin, and alopecia.
So, when Beandri
defied the grim prognosis and reached her milestone 18th birthday, her parents
were so ecstatic that they held two parties - one for close family members and
a neon-themed celebration party a few days later with friends.
Despite her challenges,
the fearless Pretoria, South African teenager’s spirit remained unbroken. There
was no time for self-pity and no room for fear. She refused to let her
condition, which affects only about 400 kids worldwide, define her.
Weighing just 26
pounds, Beandri attended school and planned big for her future. She dreamed of
becoming a teacher, hoping to marry one day, and envisioned raising twins. Known
for her vibrant personality and infectious laugh, Beandri loved dancing and
time with friends. Her determination and optimism inspired everyone around her.
Social media became a
powerful platform for her. On TikTok, where she shared glimpses of her daily
life and motivational messages, she inspired hundreds of thousands of
followers. Her mantra, “Be yourself. Love yourself. Believe in yourself,”
resonated globally, offering encouragement and awareness for Progeria and other
special conditions.
Her family, whom she
credited with shaping her strength, was a vital source of support. “They
raised me as a ‘normal’ child. That shaped me into the person I am today – just
a normal gal,” Beandri explained, “to help me face the haters and
obstacles in my daily life.”
As she prepared for another
heart surgery last October, she remained hopeful. “Please don’t feel sorry
for me,” Beandri said with characteristic resilience. “Every surgery
carries risks, but my Lord is always with me. He placed incredible doctors in
my life with real passion for my health.”
She survived the
hours-long surgery, but her life took a sudden turn weeks after her 19th
birthday.
Sadly, days before Christmas 2024, her heart – the one that
radiated such hope and joy – stopped, marking her journey’s end. She was the
last known South African living with HGPS. Like this beautiful woman, if the
Holy Spirit helps you be encouraging… be encouraging!
Rest in peace, dear Beandri... God's warrior
to the end. To her family and all who loved this inspiring young lady, may the
Lord hold you all tightly in His arms for blessings of comfort and peace. We
carry you in our hearts, Amen
