Prince Frederik of Luxembourg passed away last month at the young age of 22. His parents, Prince Robert and Princess Julie, shared the heartbreaking news over the weekend. Frederik died on February 28 after a long struggle with PolG, a rare genetic mitochondrial disease. This condition affects the body’s ability to produce energy, leading to serious health issues, including organ failure and deterioration of various bodily functions.
In a heartfelt statement on the PolG Foundation’s website, which Frederik had founded, his parents expressed their pride in how he fought his illness. They described him as having an “indomitable lust for life” that helped him face his challenges with grace and humor. The family highlighted his ability to find beauty in small things, recalling a moment when Frederik asked to take a photo of the sunset from his hospital room, where he could also see the Eiffel Tower sparkling at night.
Frederik was diagnosed with PolG at 14, but he had been living with the disease since birth. His parents noted that many people with PolG remain undiagnosed, as it can be difficult to identify. Currently, there is no cure or effective treatment for this condition, which affects approximately 300 million people worldwide.
Sir Douglas Turnbull, a professor and member of the PolG Foundation’s Scientific Advisory Board, called PolG the most severe of all mitochondrial diseases, emphasizing its relentless progression and impact on multiple systems in the body.
Frederik’s mother has been a tireless advocate for PolG research, working for 15 years to raise awareness and push for advancements in treatment. The PolG Foundation, established just three years ago, has funded significant research projects and is actively collaborating with medical organizations to develop better diagnostic tools and treatments.
Frederik is survived by his brother Alexander, sister Charlotte, and both parents. His family plans to honor his memory by following his advice to appreciate the beauty in life, especially during this difficult time.