Little Fleur was one in approximately 30 to 40 children worldwide currently diagnosed with a rare genetic disease called Progeria. Children with Progeria are, in spirit, just the same as any other child, but physically, they look like very old men and women and live an average lifespan of only 13 years. Discovery Health Channel will feature Fleur’s story, PROGERIA: TOO YOUNG TO BE OLD, Tuesday, September 9, 2003 at 10 PM ET/PT.

Progeria is a condition characterized by an appearance of accelerated aging among children. Although one in eight million are diagnosed at birth, the total incidence is one in four million. Not only do children with Progeria look extremely old, but their bodies are affected by age-related diseases, such as stroke, heart attack and stiffness in joints. Common physical symptoms include dwarfism, baldness, aged skin, a pinched nose, and a small face and jaw relative to the size of the head.

Progeria is believed to be caused by a sporadic new mutation, which happens at the time of conception. There is currently no cure for this disease, and sadly, Fleur lost her battle with Progeria at nearly three years old.

Share in the life of Fleur Tobutt and her family as they face this devastating disease. Viewers will also experience the joy and tears of other children living with Progeria as the cameras capture a very special reunion for kids suffering from this disease worldwide.