Unveiling of Marianna Vardinoyannis statue at Children’s Oncology Hospital

In a climate of deep emotion and respect, the unveiling of the statue of the late Marianna Vardinoyannis were unveiled in the courtyard of the « Marianna V. Vardinogianni » oncology Hospital.

The statue, a symbol of offering, dedication and humanity, is now a reference point in the institution that is indelibly bears its name.

The ceremony was honored by the presence of the President of the Republic, Mr. Konstantinos Tasoulas, who made the unveiling and addressed a speech of high symbolism, praising Marianna Vardinoyannis’ contribution to the community: Her offer with gratitude and respect. « 

In his speech, the President of the Republic sketched in words of deep recognition the personality and work of Marianna Vardinoyannis:

« The carved form of Marianna Vardinoyannis, in the courtyard of the Children’s Oncology Hospital named after her, will gaze today the work in which she dedicated her whole life: and dedicated her whole life to a model unit that hugs her, supporting themselves and their parents in many ways.

Marianna Vardinoyannis was not a mere philanthropist. It was not limited to providing distance care, to support through material benefits. He was involved in children’s pain, mentally and physically present. She developed relationships with them full of tenderness, she offered her smile and caress. That is why those children are treated here and healed – let’s not forget that this unit shows the highest cure rates internationally – keep its image in memory as a light that removes the darkness of the disease and generates trust and hope.

The President of the Republic, Konstantinos Tasoulas, Christian V. Vardinogiannis and the two children of ELPIDAS, Iro and Michael

If something distinguished Marianna V. Vardinoyannis was social responsibility and humanitarian sensitivity, practical dedication to purpose. And if you allow me, not only the vision, the vision is not enough. It also needs something more pedestrian but much more creative. He also had a plan. He had a plan with a plan.

Her multifaceted action is not exhausted in a few words: she was founder and president of the Foundation for the Child and the Family, of the Association of Friends of Children with Cancer « Hope », UNESCO Ambassador, honored with the great prize of « Nelson » and her « Nelson ».

But above all, there was a warm and dudent man, a real ambassador of good, a valuable example of humanity, selflessness, bourgeoisie, courtesy and meaningful simplicity.

The statue we reveal today is an honorable price on her face, another recognition gesture. Recognition of her mental and material generosity, as well as her systematic work, inspired by a widespread sense of duty and moral debt.

The sculptor of the statue Anastasios Kratidis and Christiana V. Vardinoyannis in front of the statue.

Honoring the work and vision of Marianna Vardinoyannis, this is precisely this model. A model that works catalytically, incorporated into institutional structures, permeates society, makes it better.

Erripling it uniquely, Marianna Vardinoyannis is part of the dance of the benefactors of our homeland. The state honors its memory and its contribution with gratitude and respect.

And why am I talking about the gratitude of the state? There is a rather forgotten article in our Constitution, 25 (4), which says that « the state is entitled to claim by all citizens to fulfill the debt of social and national solidarity ». But the state is not only entitled to claim. When citizens fulfill this debt with so much warmth and effectiveness, then they are also entitled to the recognition and gratitude of the state and society. Just as we do today for the late Marianna V. Vardinoyannis. « 

The statue of Marianna Vardinoyannis is not only an honorable reference, but a constant reminder of what it means to offer, practical love, a vision with a plan and faith in man.

From left: Nouli Manolis, Melina Daskalaki, Georgina Greek, Christiana Vardinoyannis, Nassia Thanopoulou, Peggy Filippou. Vicky Filippou, Marianna Laimou, Eleni Samaras, Dora Dimopoulou, Athanasia Marinaki, Alina Minetta, Dina Pritiyeli

« Instead of us must speak our works »

The president of « ELPIDAS » Mrs. Christiana V. Vardinogiannis, daughter of the late Marianna, was apparently excited, spoke from the heart about her mother’s personality and work.

« Marianna V. Vardinoyannis, the soul of this hospital, always said that instead of us, our works must be spoken, the support of the fellow man we need and our determination to fight for a better world. Because this is ultimately the footprint we leave in our passage. So she has been going throughout her life, and always having the Greek people on her side, she made her vision a reality. He did the miracle that no one expected: to save 3 out of 4 children with cancer in our country, ”he said.

« Where there was darkness, she brought light, love and hope. Where there was fear, she brought courage. He never put it down and never stopped fighting for what he believed fair and right. The sculpture we are revealing today will forever be reminiscent of this great woman, protector and benefactor of our hospital. Marianna was a mother for every child in this hospital. And this statue will always stand here to give faith and power to life to children and parents, as my mother always did. An eternal symbol of hope, ”he added.

Christiana V. Vardinogiannis, the President of the Republic, Konstantinos Tasoulas, Archbishop Hieronymos, Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis and the President of the Emmanouil Papasavvas oncology Hospital.

Mr. Emmanuel Papasavvas, President of the Oncology Hospital, referred in detail to the health infrastructure offered by the late Marianna V. Vardinogiannis in Greek society: “For over 30 years she worked with all her forces for her forces. An anxious and insightful spirit has taken major initiatives such as the establishment of the first and only bone marrow transplant unit, the creation of the Children’s Oncology Hospital in our country, the vision of ELPIDAS, the Central Center for Children. It is always aimed at gaining supplies to be able to apply everything innovative and pioneering so that every child in our country has the same opportunities, the same access to sophisticated therapies similar to those performed in top oncology centers abroad. Today, Marianna V. Vardinoyannis is here to see her vision for an autonomous oncology hospital for children to become a reality. « 

Children leave colorful bouquets in the statue of Marianna V. Vardinoyannis

Particularly moving was the moment when two recovered children, Michael and Iro, on behalf of all the children of ELPIDAS, the true fighters of life, wanting to pay a tribute and express their gratitude to the statue of Marianna,