Markos Kyriakidis

And there comes a day in your life (when you thought you had real problems) and they inform you that your 11-year-old son urgently needs an open-heart surgery after being diagnosed with a right coronary artery abnormality.

The ground beneath your feet crumbles and you desperately start researching what this heart condition/abnormality is, how it is fixed, what statistics have to say about the problem, and most importantly: who to trust with your baby's life. USA, Europe, Israel? You collect all the information and put it on the table to decide.

After research and prompts from doctors, friends and acquaintances who had the same "luck" as us, I decide to contact Dr. Tzanavaros of the Cardiac Innovation Center of Apollonion Hospital.

My friend request was followed by a flurry of questions regarding the operation, the post-operative stage, the baby's psychology, etc.

This gentleman (Ioannis Tzanavaros), during the weekend (the only time available to devote to his family) answered all my questions in the most empathetic way you can relieve the worries of a parent whose child is going to undergo an open-heart surgery.

This was followed by a 1 hour conference call (since I was abroad) during which answered all my questions again with great patience and empathy he.

Our admission to the hospital was the first hug of love we received, as Larissa made it as easy as possible.

The "ages" of the operation were left behind when the doctor announced to us that everything went well, that we should not worry anymore and that we would see him as soon as he was ready.

Nikolas enters the Intensive Care Unit and the recovery begins.

They stood next to him like tireless guardian angels in order to take care of him and look after him as if he were their own baby. Should I talk about Sotiris? David? Georgia? The German one? I would be unfair with anyone else.

Even Babiniotis, with the rich Greek vocabulary, would not find the words to express my gratitude for these people.

Let me start with the maestro, Dr. Tzanavaros, a brilliant scientist with such an empathy and patience, that even Dalai Lama would envy. (Now that I think about it, the orange color would suit you). My doctor, my John, my friend, THANK YOU!

Dr. Giorgos Siakos. If you exclude the fact that he is a supporter of Omonoia, the Man has ZERO defects with a gentility and genuine kindness, ALWAYS willing to help and take care of the baby. Giorgos belongs to the people.

George, my friend, THANK YOU!

Dr. Antigoni Pontikou. Was always concerned about us, always there to inform us during the surgery, to take care of us and to reassure us about any concerns the baby might had (and his annoying father).

My Antigoni, THANK YOU!

Germans who, with Merkel style, inspire you with the confidence and safety of a Mercedes S-Class.

Danke für alles!

All the children, Doctors, nurses, cleaners have managed to create a great miracle for Cyprus.

The Cardiac Innovation Center at Apollonion Private Hospital

I keep writing and deleting.

In what words can I express my gratitude to you??

THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART FOR TAKING CARE OF MY SON.

THANK YOU FOR CARING FOR THE CHILDREN OF THE WORLD.

May you ALWAYS be well, you, your families, and everyone who loves you and whom you love..

With eternal gratitude,

Markos