President Zuma mourns the death of Ontlametse Phalatse popularly called ‘First Lady’

A woman who captured the hearts of many South Africans for her brave battle against premature aging disorder progeria has died aged 18.

President Jacob Zuma was among those who conveyed their condolences to the family of "the special child of South Africa". She was known as the "First Lady" by her friends and family.

In a tribute her family wrote: "We will miss you sorely, Tsontso, our first lady. May you find eternal peace among the angels. Rest in Peace".

She called herself the first lady because she was the first black woman in South Africa to be diagnosed with progeria.

Ontlametse loved life, lived it to the full, and never wished that she was born in any other way.

This is what South Africans will remember her for.

She rose to prominence a few years ago when a documentary was made of her life.

Ms Phalatse used her new-found fame to motivate people to get on with their lives. In the process, she touched the hearts of many South Africans.

The country got to share in some of her special moments and milestones - her 16th birthday, a school graduation ball and more recently her 18th birthday party spent with President Jacob Zuma.

Ontlametse Phalatse and her parents posed with President Jacob Zuma during their courtesy visit to the Government House

Ontlametse died surrounded by her family, who described her as having a "courageous spirit". Her legacy at 18 is not taking life's precious moments for granted.

President Zuma led a minute's silence for Ms Phalatse on his 75th birthday and said he had planned to give her a car.

"A brave young fighter has fallen. May her spirit inspire all others living with disabilities or facing any difficulty, to soldier on as she did and live life to the fullest. We are really proud of her," he said in a statement.