South africa mourns the death of ontlametse phalatse

Jacob Zuma called Ontlametse Phalatse a "brave young fighter". A woman who captured the hearts of many South Africans for her brave battle against premature aging disorder progeria has died aged Doctors had said Ontlametse Phalatse would not make it past the age of President Jacob Zuma was among those who conveyed their condolences to the family of "the special child of South Africa".

She was known as the "First Lady" by her friends and family. Local broadcaster Enca called her the country's "champion of positivity". Africa Live: More updates on this and other stories.

South africa mourns the death of ontlametse phalatse: Doctors had said Ontlametse Phalatse would

In a tribute her family wrote: "We will miss you sorely, Tsontso, our first lady. May you find eternal peace among the angels. Rest in Peace". She called herself the first lady because she was the first black woman in South Africa to be diagnosed with progeria. Ontlametse loved life, lived it to the full, and never wished that she was born in any other way.