Sammy Basso, who defied the odds of his condition, passed away at the age of 28 on 5th October 2024 following a sudden illness.
Despite suffering from Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria syndrome, a rare disease that accelerates aging, Sammy lived his life with incredible vitality and positivity.
Lorenzo Jovanotti, one of Sammy’s close friends, described him perfectly: “It was really difficult to meet someone more alive than him.” Pope Francis was moved by Sammy’s resilience and determination. At the age of 17, Sammy wrote a letter to the Pope, expressing his admiration for his straightforward approach with people. This led to a personal phone call from Pope Francis, and the two formed a bond.
Sammy’s life came to an end while he was dining with family and friends at Villa Razzolini Loredan in Asolo. The medical team attempted to revive him, but their efforts were unsuccessful.
Sammy lived life to the full
Sammy, originally from Tezze sul Brenta, Vicenza, was the world’s longest-living person with progeria, a disease known for its rapid aging effects. Despite his condition, Sammy lived an extraordinary life filled with achievements.
He completed his studies at the University of Padua in 2018 with a degree in Natural Sciences, focusing on genetic engineering and its potential for treating progeria. His academic brilliance continued, and in 2021, he earned a specialization in Molecular Biology, investigating the link between progeria and inflammation.
In addition to his academic pursuits, Sammy embarked on a coast-to-coast trip across the United States along Route 66, an adventure documented by *National Geographic*. He shared his positivity and love for life with everyone he met. When asked by TV presenter Carlo Conti about the source of his strength, Sammy responded humbly, “More than strength, it’s positivity. I get it from my family, my friends, and everything around me.”
Sammy’s parents, Laura and Amerigo, were a constant source of support. “They fought my battles when I couldn’t, and taught me to fight them alone when I was ready,” he once said. In 2019, he underwent a groundbreaking heart surgery at San Camillo Hospital in Rome, the first procedure of its kind for a progeria patient.
In 2005, Sammy’s family founded the Italian Progeria Sammy Basso Association, which remains the only organisation in Europe dedicated to supporting those affected by the disease and advancing scientific research.
Sammy’s final public appearance was just two days before his death, at the “Paolo Rizzi” Award ceremony in Venice. His passing has led to an outpouring of grief, with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni praising his “extraordinary courage,” and Minister for Disabilities Alessandra Locatelli highlighting his role in raising awareness about progeria.
Sammy’s family shared a touching message on Instagram: “Sammy taught us that, although life’s obstacles may seem insurmountable, it is worth living to the fullest.”
