Former Child Actress Passes Away During Illness... What Is the Rare 'Brittle Bone Syndrome'?

[Financial News] Melanie Watson, a former child actress who gained public attention for her appearance in the popular American sitcom 'Diff'rent Strokes,' has passed away after developing fatal complications while receiving treatment in a hospital. She was 57.
On the 28th local time, TMZ and other foreign media reported that Melanie Watson succumbed to her illness and passed away on the 26th in Colorado Springs, unable to overcome the pain of her battle.
Her older brother, Robert Watson, stated, "My sister was hospitalized with symptoms of internal bleeding before her death, and although the medical staff did their utmost until the end, her condition deteriorated rapidly." He added, "Even the doctors said it was a miracle she lived as long as she did, given her condition."
During her lifetime, Melanie Watson battled Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), a rare genetic disorder also known as 'brittle bone syndrome,' which causes bones to fracture easily from even minor impacts.
In the early 1980s, she left a strong impression on viewers by playing Kathy Gordon, a friend of Arnold Jackson (portrayed by Gary Coleman) in 'Diff'rent Strokes.' The character, like Melanie Watson herself, had Osteogenesis Imperfecta. She appeared in a total of four episodes between 1981 and 1986, making her presence felt.
Beyond her acting career, she dedicated herself to helping people with disabilities and those who were socially marginalized. She contributed to the founding of 'Train Rite,' an organization that trains rescue dogs to assist people with disabilities, and also pursued interests in community development and politics, even running for a city council seat in Colorado in the past.
In a 2020 interview with IndieWire, she reflected on her acting roles, saying, "At the time, I didn't realize the significance, but having a character with a disability appear on TV was a tremendous gift." She continued, "I feel proud of Norman Lear's courage to break conventions. If I could choose again, I would have continued acting," expressing her love and pride for her craft.
hsg@fnnews.com Han Seung-gon Reporter