Luxembourg: Prince Frederik of Luxembourg has passed away in Paris at age 22 due to POLG mitochondrial disease, his family confirmed.
Frederik was the youngest son of Prince Robert of Luxembourg and Princess Julie of Nassau.
The rare genetic disorder caused him lifelong health struggles and led to progressive organ failure.
Frederik founded the POLG Foundation in 2022, aiming to raise awareness and support research for a cure.
His father, Prince Robert, stated, “One light was extinguished, but so many remain.”
Understanding POLG
POLG mitochondrial disease prevents cells from generating energy, leading to multiple organ dysfunction and failure.
Frederik was diagnosed at age 14, after years of unclear symptoms and medical challenges.
The disorder is difficult to diagnose due to its wide-ranging effects on different organs.
Currently, no cure or treatment exists for POLG mitochondrial disease.
Prince Robert compared it to a faulty battery that never fully recharges and eventually loses power.
Raising Awareness
Frederik passed away just one day after Rare Disease Day, an event dedicated to global awareness.
An estimated 300 million people worldwide live with rare diseases, many struggling to get a diagnosis.
Robert emphasized the difficulty families face when doctors fail to recognize such conditions early.
Frederik actively participated in medical trials, hoping to help others with similar conditions.
His dedication to research aimed at finding treatments and repurposing molecules for future patients.
Final Farewell
Despite his illness, Frederik gathered his family to say goodbye, showing remarkable strength.
He spent his final moments with his brother Alexander, sister Charlotte, and other close relatives.
His father noted Frederik never wanted his disease to define him, despite its severe impact.
Frederik’s legacy will live on through his foundation’s mission to find a cure.
His family remains committed to continuing his work in raising awareness and funding research.
Royal Lineage
Prince Robert, Frederik’s father, is the first cousin of Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg.
This places Robert 15th in the line of succession to the Luxembourg throne.
Frederik’s life and mission have left a lasting mark on the fight against rare diseases.
His passing is a great loss to both his family and the global rare disease community.
The POLG Foundation will continue its efforts in his honor, searching for a breakthrough.
