- Prince Frederik dies of POLG mutation
- What exactly is the disease?
- POLG Foundation continues research
The son of Prince Robert of Luxembourg, Frederik, died at the age of just 22 as a result of the rare genetic disease POLG.
This disease, which is caused by a mutation in the mitochondria, leads to the gradual failure of several organs. Frederik was diagnosed at the age of 14 after the symptoms became more pronounced and the disease progressed.
Father Prince Robert provides insights into POLG disease
The family described the disease as a challenge that Frederik overcame with grace and humor. POLG is a serious disease that is often diagnosed late, which underlines the urgency of research.
In his statement, Prince Robert writes that his son slept more than average as a child. Later, balance and coordination weaknesses became apparent and Frederik became increasingly ill.
He was diagnosed with POLG in 2016. His father, who has two other children with his wife Princess Julie de Nassau, describes how his son could no longer eat alone.
Frederik dies from POLG mutation
Prince Frederik has suffered from the POLG mutation since birth but was not diagnosed until he was a teenager. "Because POLG disease causes such a wide range of symptoms and affects so many different organ systems, it is very difficult to diagnose and there are no treatment options, let alone a cure" explained the family.
This genetic disorder robs the body's cells of energy, leading to progressive dysfunction and multiple organ failure. The complexity of the disease presents the medical community with major challenges that urgently need to be overcome.
Family says an emotional goodbye
On February 28, Rare Disease Day, Frederik called his family one last time. "Last Friday, February 28th, on “Rare Disease Day”, our beloved son called us in to his room to speak to him for one last time. Frederik found the strength and the courage to say goodbye to each of us in turn," wrote his father Prince Robert. In his final moments, Frederik kept his sense of humor and said goodbye with a last laugh to cheer up his loved ones.
His father remembered Frederik's question: "Papa, are you proud of me?"
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POLG Foundation continues research
Frederik was not only a brave fighter, but also the founder and creative director of the POLG Foundation. This foundation is committed to research into effective treatments and cures for POLG disease.
Prince Robert asked the public to support the Foundation's work to honor his son's memory and help others affected by POLG. The Foundation plays a vital role in promoting awareness of POLG and finding much needed solutions.
