Belgian influencer Michiel Vandeweert has died at 28, more than twice the age doctors initially believed he would reach.
Vandeweert was diagnosed at a young age with progeria, an extremely rare genetic disorder that causes the body to age rapidly. Doctors predicted he would live to just 12, but he defied expectations and became one of the oldest people in the world with the condition.
His family confirmed his death in a statement shared with Flemish broadcaster VRT NWS. A specific cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.
The Mayo Clinic says people with progeria have an average life expectancy of approximately 15 years. There is currently no cure, although treatments can help manage its symptoms and complications.
Vandeweert amassed more than 90,000 followers across Instagram, YouTube, and Twitch. He used his platforms to document life with progeria and regularly streamed gaming content.
At 15, he published a memoir titled Ik Ben Michiel, which detailed how he dealt with his shortened life expectancy.
Instagram/michielvandeweertHe and his 20-year-old sister Amber, who also has progeria, were featured in the 2026 documentary How To Be Alive: Amber and Michiel. A production crew followed the siblings for several months to show their lives beyond the condition.
KRC Genk pays tribute to Michiel Vandeweert
Vandeweert was also a devoted supporter of Belgian soccer club KRC Genk, which paid tribute to him following his death.
“It is with deep sadness that KRC Genk bids farewell to Michiel Vandeweert,” the club wrote. “Michiel truly loved life and was a loyal Genkie. His courage and positivity were a source of inspiration to many.”
The club added: “Our thoughts are with Amber, his parents, family, and friends. Rest in peace, Michiel.”
Vandeweert’s funeral is reportedly set to take place at KRC Genk’s stadium, fulfilling his wish to have his farewell held at the home of his favorite team. The ceremony will be open to the public and is expected to be the first funeral held directly on the stadium’s field.
“People sometimes complain and nag a lot about small things. When you look at how Michiel lived his life, you can only have admiration for,” Rik Kriekels, mayor of Diepenbeek, said of the influencer.
I’m Abhishek Sharma, an author at TigerJek.com. I enjoy exploring games, testing different strategies, and turning what I learn into clear, useful guides. My goal is to help players understand the game better and improve without the usual confusion.
