Sammy Basso was one of the oldest known people with the premature aging disease progeria, and he worked to find a cure for his own affliction.
- Died: October 5, 2024 (Who else died on October 5?)
- Details of death: Died at the age of 28.
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Sammy Basso’s legacy
Born in Schio, Italy, Basso was diagnosed with progeria when he was two years old. The rare disease, also called Hutchinson-Gilford syndrome, causes rapid aging, and many sufferers die by their mid-teens. Few see their 20s, and at 28, Basso was one of the disease’s longest survivors.
There’s no cure for progeria, but Basso was among those searching for the key to slowing or reversing its progression. With a master’s degree in molecular biology, he worked with a research team exploring progeria, both as a research subject and as a participant in meetings among scientists. He said that his condition was what inspired him to pursue an education in science.
Basso also worked to educate the world about progeria, doing so in part through humor. He was aware that the disease made his appearance unusual, and he took full advantage of that in practical jokes. In one such instance, while sitting outside Area 51 during a visit to the U.S., he wore large sunglasses designed to look like the traditional portrayal of aliens and waited to see the reactions of passersby.
Notable quote
“I like my life as it is, because it’s my life. I have my friends, my parents, my family. These are the most important things. Progeria is a small part of my life, because it only affects the body.” — from a 2016 interview for Aleteia
Tributes to Sammy Basso
Full obituary: Stat News
