Michiel Vandeweert was only two years old when he was diagnosed with progeria, an extremely rare genetic condition that causes the body to age much faster than usual. Doctors warned his family that he might not live beyond his early teenage years. But Michiel refused to allow that prediction to determine how he would live. Instead, he chose to focus on the time he had and make every moment meaningful.

At just 15, Michiel wrote a book about growing up while knowing his life could be shorter than most people’s. In 2018, he shared his story in a TEDx talk titled “Life’s short, make the most of it.” He later gained more than 90,000 followers online, where he showed people a side of himself that had little to do with his condition. He played games, joked around, laughed and shared ordinary moments, reminding everyone that he was a person first—not simply a diagnosis.

Michiel’s younger sister, Amber, also lived with progeria, and the two shared a unique understanding of one another. Earlier this year, a documentary crew spent months following the siblings, capturing their lives and experiences beyond the illness. Michiel was also a devoted supporter of Belgian football club KRC Genk, a connection that remained important to him throughout his life.

After his death, KRC Genk honored his wishes by allowing his funeral to take place inside the club’s stadium on August 17. His family asked people to remember Michiel not simply for the condition he lived with, but for the person he was: cheerful, kind, funny and deeply loved. His hometown mayor also remembered him as an inspiration to countless people.

Doctors once suggested that Michiel might have only 12 years. He lived to 28—giving him 16 years beyond that prediction, filled with friendships, laughter, experiences and purpose. His story is a powerful reminder that none of us knows exactly how much time we have. What matters is how we choose to use the time we’re given. ❤️