Berns died Friday evening due to complications from the rare genetic disease , according to the Progeria Research Foundation . Sam Berns had progeria , which causes premature , accelerated aging . Comment: According to Sam '' Berns died a day before he was to be the Patriots ' honorary captain . `` I loved Sam Berns and am richer for having known him , '' Patriot owner says .
Sam Berns had progeria , which causes premature , accelerated aging . Comment: According to Sam '' Berns died a day before he was to be the Patriots ' honorary captain . `` I loved Sam Berns and am richer for having known him , '' Patriot owner says .