In a heartbreaking incident, 30-year-old Paulina from Oświęcim tragically passed away on March 14, 2025, after choking on a piece of pizza at a local restaurant. The event unfolded on International Women's Day, March 8, when Paulina was dining out and suddenly choked, prompting immediate action from bystanders.
First responders, including firefighters from the Oświęcim Fire Brigade and a medical rescue team, arrived promptly and administered first aid. Their efforts succeeded in reviving Paulina, who was quickly transported to the hospital for further medical intervention. Despite the heroic attempts by doctors to save her life, she was declared brain dead just days later.
The news of Paulina's death has sent shockwaves through the community. As a single mother, she raised two children, including her son Jaś, who requires constant rehabilitation. This situation has sparked an outpouring of support from the residents of Oświęcim, who have rallied to aid her grieving family.
In response to this tragedy, an online fundraiser was launched on the platform pomagam.pl. The campaign has seen overwhelming support, with nearly 2,500 donors contributing more than 140,000 złoty to assist Paulina's children. Paulina’s relatives expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the generosity shown by the community.
In a touching statement, Paulina's family wrote, "Drodzy Darczyńcy, brakuje słów, by wyrazić naszą wdzięczność za Waszą ogromną dobroć i wsparcie. Dzięki Wam dwukrotnie udało się osiągnąć cel zbiórki na rehabilitację Jasia, co jest dowodem na to, jak wiele serc poruszyła historia Pauliny i jej synka. Dziękujemy Wam z całego serca za każde wsparcie, każde dobre słowo i każdą okazaną życzliwość," underlining the emotional impact and the community’s response to the tragedy.
To maximize assistance for Paulina's children, additional collection boxes will be placed around the city, encouraging residents to contribute as they are able. This grassroots effort signifies the bond and compassion amongst the townsfolk of Oświęcim.
Paulina's funeral is set to take place on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at the municipal cemetery in Oświęcim. A solemn mass will occur at 2:00 PM in the chapel, preceded by a rosary dedicated to her memory at 1:30 PM. This gathering will serve not only as a farewell to a beloved member of the community but also as a testament to the solidarity shown by neighbors and friends in difficult times.
As Oświęcim comes together to honor Paulina's life and support her children, it underscores an important lesson about love and community. Paulina’s legacy will live on through the compassion that continues to fill the hearts of those she touched.
