Michiel Vandeweert was born in Belgium in 1998. Eight months later, the baby boy was diagnosed with progeria, a rare and incurable genetic condition characterized by signs of rapid and premature aging.
“The children age in one calendar year about ten years biologically,” Michiel’s mother, Godelieve, told Progeria.be. “Emotionally the children are absolutely normal, but weight and height remain low. They have a small face with big eyes. They lose their hair and become bald. The skin is very thin and translucent. The blood veins are easy to see. The skin is very weak. Only the brain is not affected: these children are very bright and intelligent. ”
Michiel’s parents always wanted two children. Doctors said it would be nearly impossible for Godelieve to conceive another child with the same disease.
But eight years after Michiel’s diagnosis, his younger sister Amber was also diagnosed with progeria. Everyone, including the doctors, were dumbfounded.
The medical community had seen a case of siblings with progeria, but only with twins.
The average life expectancy for individuals with progeria is 12-13 years… but as you’re about to see, these siblings have exceeded all expectations.
Michiel and Amber share an incredible bond and inspiring outlook on life.
Source : https://www.littlethings.com/brother-sister-rare-disease-age/