The PLN Foundation is an organization dedicated to spreading the word about the PLN R14del gene mutation that is most often found in people of Friesian Dutch heritage – the largest group population being in West Michigan. The session is recommended for those who may be a PLN carrier, have a family member affected by PLN, are exploring their family’s cardiac history or simply want to learn more.

The session will be held in the HASP (Hope Academy of Senior Professionals) classroom in the Anderson-Werkman Financial Center on Hope’s campus. It will also be available virtually via Zoom. Registration is required for those planning to attend in person or virtually by registering here or calling the HASP office at 616-395-7919.   Watch parties will also be held during this date and time at local senior-living communities.

The PLN R14del mutation is a rare inherited genetic change in the phospholamban gene. Although a small genetic change, it disrupts the heart’s ability to handle calcium properly, placing chronic stress on heart muscle cells. The PLN Foundation is visiting Holland since the mutation has been recognized in families around the world, with many having Dutch ancestry — particularly from Friesland.

Leading the session will be Pieter Glijnis, PLN chairman and founder, and a carrier of PLN. His goal is to raise awareness about the heartbreaking disease PLN-R14del, which was first identified in 2006 and has since been recognized in families around the world, mostly in those with Dutch ancestry. Glijnis will discuss how early diagnosis through genetic testing, routine cardiac screening, and ongoing care with an experienced cardiologist can help identify changes early and improve long-term outcomes.

The PLN Foundation is on a worldwide tour to locations where Dutch immigrants from Friesland settled and potentially carried the PLN mutation. The PLN Foundation is partnering with the Hope College HASP and the Van Raalte Institute to host this session.

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