Prince Frederik of Luxembourg has passed away at the age of 20 after a lifelong battle with POLG mitochondrial disease, a rare genetic disorder. His family announced his death on March 1, 2025, in Paris, through the website of the POLG Foundation, an organization he founded in 2022 to raise awareness and fund research for the disease.
His father, Prince Robert of Luxembourg, shared the heartbreaking news, stating, “It is with a very heavy heart that my wife and I would like to inform you of the passing of our son, the POLG Foundation Founder and Creative Director, Frederik.”
A Battle Against a Rare Disease
POLG mitochondrial disease is a genetic disorder that disrupts the body’s ability to produce energy, leading to progressive organ failure. The POLG Foundation describes the disease as untreatable and incurable, a condition that Frederik dedicated his life to fighting.
Diagnosed at the age of 14, Prince Frederik faced immense challenges, as POLG affects multiple organ systems and is difficult to diagnose. Despite this, he worked tirelessly to spread awareness, participate in medical trials, and advocate for others affected by rare diseases.
A Farewell Marked by Love and Courage
Prince Frederik passed away just a day after Rare Disease Day. In his final moments, he demonstrated extraordinary strength, taking time to say goodbye individually to his loved ones. His father recounted that he bid farewell to his brother, Alexander; his sister, Charlotte; his three cousins, Charly, Louis, and Donall; his brother-in-law, Mansour; and his Aunt Charlotte and Uncle Mark.
Despite his declining health, Frederik maintained his disciplined and organized nature. Even on the day before his passing, his Italian language lesson alarm and exercise reminders went off as usual.
A Legacy of Compassion and Advocacy
Frederik’s family recently discovered a deeply moving statement he once shared with a close friend: “I am glad that I am the one who was born with this disease. Even though I’ll die from it, and even if my parents do not have the time to save me, I know that they will be able to save other children.”
Though he never wanted his illness to define him, Frederik devoted himself to advocacy, raising awareness about POLG mitochondrial disease and engaging in research efforts. His work with the POLG Foundation aimed to find potential treatments and repurpose existing molecules to help patients like him.
Honoring a Bright Light
Prince Frederik took his last breath in Paris, the City of Lights. As his father poignantly expressed, “One light was extinguished, but so many remain.” His legacy lives on through the foundation he created, the awareness he spread, and the lives he touched with his resilience and compassion.
The Information is Collected from News18 and CNN.
