He used his experience to help others
Shout out to Sammy Basso! The most famous progeria patient dies at age 28
Sammy Basso at the 36th UYN Venice Marathon in 2022.
Alessio Marini/LPS via ZUMA Press Wire
October 8, 2024 at 9:49 am
The world mourns the loss of a great man!
Sammy Basso has died. He suffered from progeria, also known as Hutchinson-Gilford syndrome, a disease that causes the body to age very quickly. His death is not only a great loss to his family and friends.
He leaves a strong legacy
At 28, Basso more than doubled the average life expectancy of progeria patients. These people usually die at a young age, often from a heart attack or stroke. He died on October 5 after, according to media reports, complaining of feeling ill after visiting a restaurant.
He leaves a strong legacy: Sammy Basso showed that a fulfilled and meaningful life is possible despite serious illnesses. He reminded the world that everyone is unique and valuable and that we all have the power to make a difference.
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He didn’t want to be defined by his illness
Sammy Basso was born on December 1, 1995 in Schio. From a young age, he refused to let his illness define him. Quite the opposite: he used his experience to help others. Because he recognized how important it is to raise awareness of progeria – and thus promote research.
Together with his parents, he founded the Associazione Italiana Progeria Sammy Basso (AIPro.Sa.B.), an organization dedicated to supporting people with progeria and their families and promoting scientific research. He traveled tirelessly throughout Italy and the world raising money, giving lectures, and educating the public about progeria.
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He studied molecular biology and contributed to progeria research
His commitment brought him worldwide attention. Sammy has appeared in many television programs and documentaries, including a moving National Geographic film about his journey on Route 66 in the USA. Through his openness and positive demeanor, he has become a symbol of hope and inspiration for people around the world who are facing these or similar challenges.
Sammy was not only an activist, but also a gifted student. He completed his studies in molecular biology at the University of Padua with a diploma and contributed to progeria research. His thirst for knowledge and desire to understand the world was great. In doing so, he inspired the world – and we will always remember each of us. (fight)