Received an award in 2004 for creating an implanted pump that supports heart function. To find out what happened to Religa, turn to the next page.
At the time, no one could have predicted that the well-known surgeon would pass away from lung cancer. Ironically, he was also a chain smoker who briefly held the position of Minister of Health.
In addition to his scientific endeavors, he pursued a career in politics. In fact, he was a candidate for president in 2005.
Despite his defeat, he continued to lead, holding the position of Poland’s Health Minister from 2005 to 2007. But he was found to have lung cancer in 2009.
