Hayley Okines Dies Aged 17
Readers, I have very sad news to bring you tonight. Hayley Okines’ mother Kerry posted this on her personal Facebook page two hours ago:
My baby girl has gone somewhere better. She took her last breath in my arms at 9.39pm x
Hayley Okines, as many of you know, had progeria. She thankfully lived four years longer than the life expectancy for people with her disability.
Same Difference followed Hayley’s story closely for several years.
I watched two documentaries on Hayley with great interest. Old Before My Time, her first autobiography, is sitting on my bookshelf at this moment, waiting to be read for the first time. When I do read it, I will now do so in her memory.I will also buy and read her second autobiography, Young At Heart, as soon as possible.
Hayley has always inspired me. I am feeling genuine sadness tonight at her death, even though we never met each other.
My thoughts are with Hayley’s family and friends, particularly her friends in the progeria community, most of whom are teenagers now. For while losing a friend at any age is very difficult, losing a friend who shares your disability is one of the most difficult things a disabled person can experience. And helping teenagers through the loss of a friend is almost impossible for parents.
I send very sincere condolences to the Okines family and the whole progeria community on Hayley’s very sad death.
Same Difference 
As someone who as a disability and is also a writer. That is very sad. Still with two books she achieved so much more than me in half the years. Good, for her. I hope she sleeps well.
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Reblogged this on sdbast.
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Dear Kerry
I am so sorry to hear the sad news of your beautiful Hayley leaving this world
she was such an inspiration to many , always happy and smiling , my heart was full of love for her , may God give you strength and peace at this very difficult time, I am sure Hayley will never be forgotten . God bless love carole cooper x x
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I’m so sorry 😦 Sending condolences to her family and friends and all who knew her. Sleep well now Hayley.
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