This condition is usually diagnosed during childhood, and most who have it don’t live beyond 13 years of age.
Tiffany’s diagnosis
Despite being smaller than her friends and having a higher-pitched voice, Tiffany didn’t notice any major differences growing up until her early twenties when she began losing her hair and teeth.
After visiting the doctor and undergoing DNA testing, it was confirmed that she had progeria, scientifically known as Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) or the ‘Benjamin Button’ disease.
Unlike the fictional story of Benjamin Button where aging goes in reverse, Tiffany’s condition causes her to age at a rate that is eight times faster than normal.
What is Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome?
WebMD explains: “It’s a rare genetic condition that results in a child’s body aging rapidly. A mutation in the LMNA gene causes progeria.
“Most kids with progeria don’t live past age 13. The disease affects people of all sexes and races equally. About one in every four million babies are born with it worldwide.
“A single mistake in a certain gene causes it to make an abnormal protein. When cells use this protein, called progerin, they break down more easily.
“This leads kids with progeria to age quickly.”
While most people are diagnosed with progeria in childhood and often do not live beyond 13 years of age, Tiffany’s diagnosis came later in life, during her twenties.
She is thought to be the oldest known person surviving with the condition.
How Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome impacts Tiffany
She told Metro: “I age much quicker than everyone else and to be honest, I’m not sure why I’ve lived so long and outlived other people with progeria. I think it might be because I take good care of myself.”
To stay as healthy as she can, Tiffany remains ‘very active’, practicing yoga, going on bike rides, and maintaining a nutritious diet.
“I am blessed to be here and I’m doing everything I can to give myself the best chance. I saw how my brother struggled (with progeria) and how quickly things changed with him, so I live with a positive mindset.”
Sadly, he passed away in 2012 due to complications related to the condition.
Currently, Tiffany is trying a new drug called Lornafarnib, which is hoped to help slow down the rapid aging process.
This drug is reportedly on the verge of being approved as the first treatment specifically for progeria.
“[…] I am living life to the full while I can because I have seen how short life can be. I am amazed I am still here so I am treating my life like my playground.”
