Beloved teen dies at 17 after suffering from rare aging disease

Sam Berns 17 suffered a rare disease progeria, which causes premature accelerated aging. He died Friday Jan 10th 2014 evening due to complications from the rare genetic disease. He was a big New England Patriots fan and Saturday Jan 11th 2014 night could have been a moment for him to celebrate. He died a day before he was to be the Patriots' honorary captain. 
Patriots owner Robert Kraft said "I loved Sam Berns and am richer for having known him," "He was a special young man whose inspirational story and positive outlook on life touched my heart." Progeria affects approximately one in every 4 million to 8 million infants; there are only about 200 children living with it worldwide. The genetic mutation tied to it causes those with the disease to produce the protein progerin, which blocks normal cell function. As they age rapidly, these children suffer from a loss of body fat and hair and an inability to gain weight.They are prone to developing osteoporosis, a disease where bones become weak and are more likely to break.