Health2 min(s) read
Published 16:02 13 Aug 2026 GMT
Michiel Vandeweert, a Flemish content creator who documented his life with progeria, has died at age 28. His family shared news of his death in a statement obtained by the Flemish news broadcast VRT NWS.
Vandeweert was diagnosed at a young age with progeria, a rare and progressive genetic disorder that causes children to age rapidly starting around age 2. According to the Mayo Clinic, the condition typically results in a life expectancy of about 15 years, and there is no known cure.
Doctors once told Vandeweert that he would likely only live to age 12. He far surpassed those early expectations, eventually becoming one of the oldest living people in the world with the condition.
Through his Instagram, YouTube, and Twitch accounts, where he gathered a combined following of more than 90,000 people, Vandeweert posted regular gaming content alongside insights into his experience with progeria. At age 15, he published his memoir, Ik Ben Michiel (translated as “I Am Michael”), which focused on facing a short life expectancy and navigating daily life with the disease.
Earlier this year, Vandeweert and his 20-year-old sister Amber, who also has progeria, were featured in the documentary How To Be Alive: Amber and Michiel. A film crew followed the siblings over several months to highlight the everyday realities of living with the disorder.
News of his death brought widespread condolences throughout Belgium. Rik Kriekels, mayor of Diepenbeek where Vandeweert lived, shared his admiration for Vandeweert's outlook. "People sometimes complain and nag a lot about small things. When you look at how Michiel lived his life, you can only have admiration for that," Kriekels wrote, according to VRT NWS.
The soccer team KRC Genk, which Vandeweert closely followed, also published a tribute on Instagram on August 10.
"It is with deep sadness that KRC Genk bids farewell to Michiel Vandeweert. Michiel truly loved life and was a loyal Genkie. His courage and positivity were a source of inspiration to many," the post stated. "Our thoughts are with Amber, his parents, family, and friends. Rest in peace, Michiel. 💙"
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