President Jacob Zuma saddened by passing of Miss Ontlametse Phalatse

President Jacob Zuma has learned with sadness of the passing on of Miss Ontlametse Phalatse, one of the two South African young women living with Progeria, an extremely rare genetic disorder in which symptoms resembling aspects of aging are manifested at a very early age.

Miss Phalatse paid a courtesy call on the President on the eve of her 18th birthday last month.

President Zuma had also invited Ms Phalatse and her mother Ms Bellone Phalatse, with whom the President shares his birthday, to join him in the celebration of his 75th birthday.

"Our lives were most touched by meeting Ontlametse last month. She was very special indeed. I was impressed by 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. A brave young fighter has fallen. May her spirit inspire all others living with disabilities or facing any difficulty, to soldier on as she did and live life to the fullest. We are really proud of her. We wish to convey our utmost condolences to her mother, her whole family and the Ontlametse Phalatse Trust for this sad loss. May her soul rest in eternal peace," said President Zuma.

The President remains committed to fulfilling his undertaking to help the family with a house according to Ontlametse's wishes.

Enquiries:
Dr Bongani Ngqulunga
Cell: 082 308 9373
E-mail: bongani@presidency.gov.za

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