Photo: 10-Year-Old Child Dies from Rare Premature Aging in Ukraine

On Wednesday, June 30, 10-year-old Irina Khimich passed away in the Ukrainian city of Vinnytsia. She was the only child in Ukraine diagnosed with a rare syndrome that causes premature aging, as reported by Tert.am, referencing the website karachun.com.ua.

Her mother, Diana Khimich, announced the news on her Facebook page, stating, "She has passed away. Yesterday her heart stopped. I’m sorry, my sun, that I couldn’t save you this time."

The report details that the child suffered from progeria (Hutchinson-Gilford syndrome), a rare genetic and incurable disease that causes the body to age prematurely. Children with this condition biologically age 8-10 years within a year. Irina was diagnosed at the age of five.

Due to her illness, the child could not lead an active lifestyle. However, she painted pictures that were displayed in her personal exhibitions.