The late microsurgeon and scientist, Johan van Dongen
With deep sorrow, the family of Dutch scientist and
microsurgeon Johan van Dongen, together with the writers of the renowned health
blog Secrets of HIV and Ebola Facts Journal, announce the passing of a beloved
husband, father, colleague, and friend whose life left an unforgettable mark on
all who knew him.
After more than two years of courageously battling cancer,
Professor van Dongen passed away on June 20th at the Hospice in Mechelen. His
departure has brought immense grief to his family, close friends, and the
global community that valued his work and integrity.
We have lost a remarkable man, one whose unwavering love for
humanity made him a fearless voice in a scientific world often clouded by
corruption and silence. He lived by the truth, suffered for the truth, and
ultimately held onto the truth until his final breath.
For this, he will forever be remembered by the friends, readers, and supporters who cherished his research and admired his courage. Though he is no longer with us, his place will never remain empty.
We will
continue the mission he began: to provide honest, evidence-based health
information in honor of his memory and legacy. His wish for us to carry on this
important work will guide us until the day we, too, find eternal rest.
To our readers around the world, we extend heartfelt
gratitude for your support, which has helped make this blog a unique and
respected platform. Below is the full biography of the man whose vision helped
shape it.
Professor Johan van Dongen was born on May 15, 1946, in the
southern part of Rotterdam, the Netherlands, on one of the coldest days of that
season. He grew up in a hardworking family; his father earned a living as a
salesman dealing in second-hand clothing.
Gifted with skill and determination from a young age, Johan
was appointed chief of a poultry and butchery shop at just seventeen, a
position he held for four years. His exceptional abilities impressed his
employer, who encouraged him to pursue a career in surgery, a suggestion that
would shape the rest of his life.
In 1969, at the age of 23, Johan became a laboratory animal
keeper in the Department of General Surgery at Dijkzigt Hospital in Rotterdam,
part of Erasmus University. His background in butchery and his deep
understanding of animal anatomy made him an invaluable asset to the department.
From 1969 to 1976, he pursued formal studies in laboratory animal keeping and animal technology at the University of Leiden, graduating in
1973. Simultaneously, from 1972 to 1976, he studied experimental microsurgery at Erasmus University Rotterdam, completing his training in May 1976.
Professor van Dongen later served as a lecturer at
Maastricht University, where he contributed to the training of future
scientists and medical professionals.
After his retirement, he continued to inspire others, and it
was during this period that he helped conceive the idea for the health blog
that would become his lasting digital legacy. Professor Johan van Dongen was 75
years old.