Influencer Michiel Vandeweert, who had a rare disorder, has died. He was 28.
His death was shared by Flemish news broadcast VRT NEWS, who shared a statement by production company Boundbreakers. The production company had previously featured Vandeweert on the documentary series How to Be Alive.
“Michiel leaves a deep impression and an indelible memory with everyone who knew him or followed his story,” a statement, which was translated to English, read. “We wish the parents, sister, family, and friends much strength during these difficult times.”
Vandeweert was diagnosed with the rare progressive genetic disorder progeria at a young age. The disorder causes children to rapidly age and has a life expectancy of about 15 years, per Mayo Clinic. There is no known cure.
Vandeweert, who was a big fan of soccer team KRC Genk, was also honored by the organization after his death.
“With deep sadness, KRC Genk bids farewell to Michiel Vandeweert,” a statement, translated to English, read via Instagram on Monday, August 10. “Michiel was a true bon vivant and a loyal Genkie. His courage and positivity were a source of inspiration to many. Our thoughts are with Amber, his parents, family, and friends. Rest in peace, Michiel. 💙.”
Vandeweert’s funeral is reportedly set to take place inside the stadium.
“We have had funerals in our stadium before, but until now they were always in the business seats section,” Erik Gerits, Head of Community at KRC Genk, said in a statement translated to English. “This will be the first time we organize the funeral on the field itself. The plan is to place Michiel somewhere near the center circle and seat the spectators in the stands. Everyone who wishes to come is welcome to say goodbye.”
“It is very difficult to estimate how many people will turn up,” Gerits continued. “Fortunately, we are quite flexible and are ready for a small group, but also for a large group of people. We also have screens that we can work with.”
In a separate statement, Rik Kriekels — the mayor of Diepenbeek, where Michiel lived — paid tribute to the content creator.
“People sometimes complain and nag a lot about small things,” a statement, which was translated to English, read. “When you look at how Michiel lived his life, you can only have admiration for that.”
The creator documented his life on his social media accounts, where he amassed more than 90,000 followers online. At age 15, Vandeweert published the memoir Ik Ben Michiel, which translated to I Am Michiel, and detailed how he navigated his life with the disorder.
Michiel and sister Amber, who also has progeria, were also featured in the documentary series How to Be Alive, which was released earlier this year. The pair chronicled their lives with the condition in the series, which followed them for several months.
