Phalatse has been called among many others; the First lady of South Africa, a heroine and champion of positivity. Ontlametse became a Youtube sensation as a youngster who so diligently fought premature aging disorder; progeria. The forecast of doctors showed that she wouldn’t make it past age 14.
Progeria is a fatal disease that affects 1 in 4 million children around the world stunting heights of victims and rapidly boosting their agedness. The average expectancy is 13 years and whats worst; there is no cure. Phalatse is remembered for her relentlessness and positive perspective of life.
She gained popularity a few years back when she was dominantly featured in a documentary about progeria and genetic mutation. Phalatse has since then used her new found fame to inspire other children living with disabilities to pursue their happiness and expel the sadness many of them were drowning in.
She died at 18 with family and friends surrounding her. South Africa’s sweetheart has left an indelible signature of persistence in our hearts and her 16th birthday, school graduation ball and more recently her 18th birthday party spent with President Jacob Zuma all of which were publicly aired will be vivid mental sceneries gliding in our minds forever.
Farewell, South Africa’s sweetheart.