Dear Sirs,
Through this letter, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the team of professionals who undertook the complex spinal surgery for our son, Ts. I.
A total spinal fusion that seemed, to us, nearly impossible due to the added complications of his cardio-respiratory issues and special needs. Yet, the team of scientists at Metropolitan Hospital — and later at Mitera — accepted the challenge with joy, but most importantly, with responsibility. They proved they've set the bar incredibly high for medical standards in Greece. In fact, we had not received a positive response even elsewhere in Europe, which only makes our gratitude deeper.
This letter could easily be not just a note of thanks, but one of congratulations as well. Congratulations for being an exceptional, fully trained and professionally outstanding team at both hospitals we visited — from surgery at Metropolitan to the recovery and hospitalization at Mitera.
What truly stood out was the seamless cooperation between the two hospitals: clear communication, immediate updates, and absolute professionalism. What initially seemed to us like a disadvantage (although Dr. Marios Lykissas insisted it was the best course) turned out to be a smart and life-saving decision — one that ultimately protected our child.
Dr. Marios Lykissas, the mastermind behind this accomplishment, deserves our deepest thanks. From our very first meeting in September 2019 to the detailed pre-op briefing, and even as our son was entering the operating room, his words remained consistent, instilling confidence. After 9.5 hours of surgery, he confirmed what he had promised — with precision and success. His unwavering certainty and professionalism proved to us he had studied the case thoroughly.
Special thanks also go to:
Dr. Georgios Lazarou, surgical assistant
Anesthesiologists Dr. Georgios Stachtos and Dr. Ioanna Nikolopoulou
Cardiologist Dr. Vasilios Tsirimpis
Pediatric neurologist Dr. Ioanna Kouri
Dr. Lykissas' coordinator Ms. Matina Maglaki
At Mitera, despite the difficulties and unexpected challenges, we received excellent care from both the clinic and ICU staff.
We especially thank:
ICU Medical Team: Loria Pafitou, Maria Mavrikou, Marianna Grigorakou, Katerina Bampanelou, Kassiani Ioannidou, Anthi Dimolitsa
ICU Head Nurse: Androniki Xanthaki
Clinic Staff: Dimitra Balman, Vasiliki Kourou, Maria Zotou, Maria Kiousi, Maria Perra, Maria-Eleni Garyfalli, Lorena Zanai, Vasiliki Platana
Clinic Head Nurse: Christos Kondos
Cardiothoracic Surgeon: Spyros Longos
Cardiologist: Lito Mantagou
Physiotherapist: Konstantinos Tryfonopoulos
In conclusion, the level of care at your institutions is among the highest we have seen in Greece. We feel truly fortunate to have been in your capable hands and will wholeheartedly recommend you wherever we go.