Adalia Rose Williams never let her reality living with an early-aging disorder keep her from being herself and living her dreams.
Adalia was your typical 15-year-old girl in her love of fashion and makeup tutorials. She documented her efforts on YouTube, where she also talked about what it was like living with Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome.
Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome is a genetic condition characterized by the dramatic, rapid appearance of aging beginning in childhood, believed to affect only about 400 children in the world. The average life span for those with the disease is 13 years, although some people live up to 20 years.
On January 13, Adalia's family took to her Instagram account to announce that she had died the day prior.
"January 12, 2022 at 7pm Adalia Rose Williams was set free from this world," they wrote.
"She came into it quietly and left quietly, but her life was far from it," the post continued.
"She touched MILLIONS of people and left the biggest imprint in everyone that knew her. She is no longer in pain and is now dancing away to all the music she loves I really wish this wasn't our reality but unfortunately it is."
Adalia's family thanked the many people who have followed her story throughout the years:
"We want to say thank you to everyone that loved and supported her. Thank you to all her doctors and nurses that worked for YEARS to keep her healthy. The family would now like to mourn this huge loss in private."
Adalia's vibrant spirit while showing she could enjoy life despite the struggles her condition presented inspired countless people. Fashion designer Michael Costello, who made Adalia two custom dresses in honor of her 13th birthday in 2019, posted a beautiful tribute to her.
"My heart is broken. I received a message at 7pm last night, Adalia Rose Williams was called home to God. I am at a loss for words and cannot stop crying," he captioned the heartfelt post.
"Adalia has been so special to every single person that she met. She was an angel," he continued.
"Despite the cards she was dealt with, she had the most positive attitude and such big dreams of helping everyone around her. I love you so much Adalia… Words cannot convey how much you’ve changed my life. I will miss you dearly, friend, and I promise to cherish all the wonderful memories we’ve had together."
A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Adalia's parents as they handle funeral and medical expenses.
