'Happy, bubbly' young woman celebrated after death from rare condition

Tori Punch, a vibrant and spirited young woman, celebrated her life after a courageous battle with Proteus syndrome, a rare genetic condition that caused her overgrowth of bones, skin, and tissue. Born at the tender age of 14 months, Tori defied the odds, never allowing her physical challenges to hinder her love for singing and dancing.

Her bedroom, adorned with colorful posters and her beloved My Little Pony blanket, serves as a testament to the joy she brought into people's lives. Her mother, Wendy Punch, ensures music fills the lounge room in her memory. Tori's unwavering strength and positivity inspired her family and the community, evident from the extensive online support she received through a dedicated Facebook page.

Her last birthday, celebrated in May this year, was a memorable event, marked by a visit from her favorite local musician and a lively celebration that concluded with a cake fight. It was the efforts of her family, including her sister Melinda Radburn, that ensured Tori's legacy extended beyond her immediate circle, reaching out to countless individuals worldwide.

With fewer than a few hundred documented cases globally, Proteus syndrome posed numerous challenges for Tori, but she remained the master of her own destiny. Her family's relentless efforts, including securing access to a US medical trial in 2018, contributed significantly to her extended life and indelible impact on others. The community responded with overwhelming support, evident through the thousands of followers on her Facebook page, whose messages of inspiration and comfort continue to resonate.

Plans are underway for an open funeral in Bundaberg, inviting the wider community to pay their respects and honor the remarkable life of Tori Punch.