Irene Gut Opdyke was born on May 5, 1922, in Kozienice, Poland. She grew up in a loving family in a small town, where she learned the values of compassion and empathy from a young age. Little did she know that these values would shape her life in unimaginable ways.
During the German occupation of Poland, Irene was hired to work in the kitchen of a hotel. Despite the risks, she used her position to smuggle food to the local ghetto, helping to feed the hungry and oppressed Jews living there. Her act of kindness did not go unnoticed, and soon she was approached to work as a nurse in a German army hospital.
It was in this hospital that Irene witnessed the atrocities committed by the Nazis against the Jewish people. Moved by the suffering she saw, she made a vow to herself to do whatever it took to help those in need, no matter the risk to her own life.
During her time as a nurse, Irene risked her own life to save twelve Jews from certain death. She hid them in the basement of the hospital, providing them with food and medical care, all while facing constant danger from the German soldiers who frequented the hospital.
Despite the constant threat, Irene never wavered in her commitment to helping those in need. She often put herself in harm's way to protect the lives of others, demonstrating incredible bravery and selflessness.
Irene Gut Opdyke's heroic actions did not end with the war. In 1999, she published her autobiography, "In My Hands: Memories of a Holocaust Rescuer", detailing her experiences during World War II and her unwavering dedication to helping others.
Her story serves as a reminder of the power of compassion and the impact that one individual can have in the face of overwhelming adversity. Irene's legacy lives on as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of standing up for what is right, no matter the consequences.
In 1995, Irene Gut Opdyke was honored with a blessing from Pope John Paul II at a joint service of Jews and Catholics. This recognition was a testament to her courage and selflessness, as well as a reminder of the importance of unity and solidarity in the face of hatred and intolerance.
Irene Gut Opdyke's remarkable story is a shining example of the power of one individual to make a difference in the world. Her acts of heroism during World War II and her unwavering commitment to helping those in need serve as an inspiration to us all. May we never forget her incredible bravery and selflessness, and may we always strive to follow in her footsteps, standing up for what is right and showing compassion to those who need it most.
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