Sammy Basso, World's Longest-Living Survivor of Progeria, Passes Away at 28

October 10, 2024 — Sammy Basso, the world's longest-living survivor of progeria, has passed away at the age of 28, according to a statement by the Progeria Research Foundation. Basso, a globally recognized advocate for progeria research and treatment, died on Saturday, the foundation confirmed in a Facebook post.

"Sammy was the embodiment of kindness, warmth, resilience, and wisdom, serving the Progeria community with many years of outstanding dedication to scientific progress toward the cure for Progeria," the foundation wrote. "He will be forever missed."

Sammy Basso

Progeria, a rare genetic disorder, causes rapid aging in children. Those affected often appear healthy at birth, but experience slowed growth, delayed weight gain, and early onset of age-related conditions like heart disease and stroke. The average life expectancy for people with progeria is just 14 years, but some, like Basso, can live into their 20s.

Basso, born in Italy in 1995, was diagnosed with progeria at the age of two. At just 10 years old, he became an ambassador for the Progeria Research Foundation, joining its clinical trials for the first-ever treatment of the disease. He was a dedicated advocate for advancing scientific knowledge about progeria and participated in numerous research initiatives throughout his life.

An accomplished student, Basso earned his first degree in Natural Sciences from Padua University in 2018 and later completed a second degree in Molecular Biology in 2021. His academic achievements included delivering theses on genetic editing approaches in HGPS mice and researching the relationship between Lamin A and Interleukin-6, which offered new avenues for potential treatments for progeria.

Basso's humor and optimism were well-known, with friends and colleagues noting his ability to joke about his appearance, which included a bald head and premature aging due to the disease. Eric Boodman, in an obituary for STAT, praised Basso's ability to connect with anyone, from children to scientists to the Pope.

As a trailblazer in the fight against progeria and a beloved figure within the community, Sammy Basso's legacy will continue to inspire advancements in research and treatment for those living with the condition.