Poland said goodbye to Professor Wanda Półtawska, a remarkable figure known for her resilience, courage, and faith as a survivor of the Ravensbrück concentration camp. Her legacy as a physician, social activist, and devout Catholic has left a lasting impact on the nation, recognized by President Andrzej Duda as an “unforgettable personality.”
The Inspiring Journey of Wanda Półtawska
Born in Lublin in 1921, Półtawska’s life was shaped by wartime challenges, including her imprisonment in Ravensbrück for resisting Nazi occupation. Despite enduring unimaginable horrors, she emerged with a commitment to life’s sanctity, leading to a distinguished career in psychiatry and a collaboration with Pope John Paul II to promote Catholic social doctrine.
Championing Faith, Family, and Human Dignity
Despite facing opposition for her unwavering defense of Catholic teachings, Półtawska remained true to her beliefs, earning Poland’s highest honor in 2016. Her legacy lives on through her advocacy and memoir, And I Am Afraid of My Dreams, a testament to her resilience and faith in the face of adversity.