Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma will on Friday attend the funeral service of the late Ontlametse Phalatse, one of the two South African teens who lived with Progeria, who passed away last Tuesday at George Mukhari hospital, in Garankuwa.
A memorial service for Phalatse was held on Wednesday at the Hebron College, Manotsi High School.
Progeria is an extremely rare genetic disorder in which symptoms resembling aspects of aging are manifested at a very early age.
Phalatse paid a courtesy call on the President on the eve of her 18th birthday last month which was part of her wish list.
Ontlametse will be remembered for 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.
President Zuma remains committed to fulfilling his undertaking to help the Phalatse family with a house and his Foundation has already donated a car to Ontlametse’s mother as one of her wishes.
Phalatse, who touched so many people in her short life, was invited by President Zuma to attend his 75th birthday celebration.
Phalatse was the only black person in the world to suffer from the rare disease. She remained positive and never showed signs of depression throughout her life. – SAnews.gov.za
