Frederik de Nassau, the youngest son of Robert of Luxembourg, passed away at just 22 years old after battling the rare mitochondrial disease POLG. His family announced the heart-wrenching news, sharing their deep sorrow and admiration for Frederik’s strength and resilience throughout his unwavering fight against the illness.
Frederik breathed his last on February 28, 2025, surrounded by his family who lovingly supported him until the end. His father, Robert of Luxembourg, conveyed the poignant final moments of Frederik's life, reminiscing how he was able to say goodbye to each family member individually, demonstrating admirable serenity even during such trying times. “He is my superhero,” Robert affectionately declared, honoring his son's indomitable spirit.
Diagnosed with the POLG mitochondrial disorder at age 14, Frederik faced many health challenges due to this genetic condition, which hampers the body’s ability to generate energy effectively, leading to multi-organ dysfunction. Symptoms included muscle weakness, coordination issues, difficulties with speech and swallowing, progressive vision loss, and seizures. The condition, like having “a defective battery” according to his father, led to constant exhaustion and diminishing energy levels.
Frederik dedicated much of his life to raising awareness about POLG and to advancing the quality of life for those afflicted with mitochondrial diseases. He founded the POLG Foundation, through which he sought to promote research and provide necessary support for patients suffering from similar conditions. Despite his health battles, he maintained a positive outlook, often displaying humor and kindness even during his most challenging moments. “Frederik is the strongest person we know,” his family proclaimed, echoing the sentiments shared by many who had the privilege to know him.
His mother, Julie Elizabeth Houston Ongaro, echoed her husband’s respect for Frederik's character, highlighting his ability to find positivity even under the gloomiest of circumstances. “He always saw the light,” she noted, recalling the joy and laughter her son brought to their family.
Frederik’s passing serves as not only a personal loss to his family but also as a stark reminder of the urgency for advancements in medical research related to mitochondrial diseases. Underlining this situation, Robert has reinstated his commitment to influencing greater investment and attention on these rare diseases, hoping to spur change and improvement for future generations.
The young prince’s legacy will undoubtedly endure through the invaluable work of the POLG Foundation. Now, more than ever, Frederik’s family aims to convert their heartache and loss of their beloved son and brother, establishing a clear message of hope, resilience, and positivity. His family envisions continuing Frederik’s mission and carrying forth the fight against POLG, ensuring his story inspires others facing similar challenges.
Besides his immediate family, Frederik leaves behind countless friends who were touched by his joy of life. Remembered for his spirit and determination to live fully, he challenged the limitations imposed by his body's condition and served as a beacon of hope and inspiration. His commitment to advocating for those battling debilitating conditions will surely resonate with many.
Frederik’s spirit and legacy will be cherished across the world. His family shared heartfelt goodbyes, cherishing the moments spent together up until the very end. February 28 also coincided with the Rare Disease Day, marking it another poignant reminder of Frederik’s brave plight and shining light on others struggling with similar conditions.
With the support of his family and advocates, Frederik's story will continue to spread awareness and bring about meaningful change. His life is remembered as one of unwavering courage, forging pathways for those similarly afflicted and standing firm against the darkness of rare diseases.
While Frederik has departed from this world, his inspiring legacy lives on through the stories shared by those who loved him, the policies enacted due to his advocacy, and the lives of many who will benefit from the awareness he raised throughout his short but impactful life.