Schools
Foxborough's Sam Berns, 17, Awarded Posthumous Degree
Berns died in January from a rare genetic disease that accelerates the aging process.
Sam Berns, the 17-year-old Foxborough resident who battled a rare disease that accelerates the aging process, was awarded a posthumous degree from Suffolk University over the weekend.
Berns was diagnosed with progeria, a genetic condition. Children who have it live to an average age of 13.
Last year, HBO Documentaries released "Life According to Sam," which chronicled his life.
Find out what's happening in Foxboroughwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
His parents established The Progeria Research Foundation in 1999 to fight the disease.
"(Sam) never let his medical condition define him," Scott Berns said during a pre-commencement dinner. "He was a percussionist, Eagle Scott, umpire...high school honors student, and a member of the National Honors Society."
Find out what's happening in Foxboroughwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
"He had the courage and drive to do extraordinary things."
Berns developed a relationship with New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, who called the boy an inspiration.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
