The family of Sam Berns confirmed today that he passed away Friday evening, January 10, due to complications from Progeria.
Sam, age 17, was diagnosed at 22 months of age with Progeria. His parents, Drs. Leslie Gordon and Scott Berns, established The Progeria Research Foundation in 1999 to find the cause, treatment and cure. Children with Progeria live an average of 13 years.
In 2013, HBO Documentaries broadcast the story of Sam Berns in Life According to Sam, and his courage and spirit moved everyone who came to know him personally or was inspired by his story. Sam also shared his life philosophy at TEDxMidAtlantic in October 2013.
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The entire PRF community mourns the loss of this remarkable young man who not only inspired PRF's creation, but also touched millions of people worldwide.
The family requests privacy at this time until arrangements can be made. Expressions of sympathy and support may be expressed using #prfsam on Twitter and The Progeria Foundation Facebook page and/or directed to The Progeria Research Foundation at P.O. Box 3453, Peabody, MA 01961-3453.
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Original Story
Sam Berns has lost his battle with Progeria. Foxborough Patch has learned that the 17-year-old Foxboro resident passed away Friday night.
Berns spent most of 2013 around the country promoting the HBO documentary Life According to Sam.
The film, which followed Berns as he lived with the rapid aging disease, brought new awareness nationally for Progeria.
Last year, a fundraising campaign which included a $500,000 matching donation from Patriots owner Robert Kraft raised $1.18 million for progeria research.
In memory of Berns, the New England Patriots will hold a moment of silence before their game against the Colts. The team had hope for him to be an honorary captain tonight.
At this time the family has asked for privacy.
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