Andreas Kiligaridis, the Greek canoe and kayak champion suffered a stroke in Poland and still remains in critical condition. According to reports, the athlete has fallen into a coma and the next few hours are critical. He traveled to Bydgoszcz, Poland to participate in a competition.
The 37-year-old champion was found unconscious in his hotel room and was transferred to the hospital in Bydgoszcz, where doctors, after thorough medical tests, diagnosed that he has been suffering from an aggressive form of leukemia.
Before leaving Greece, Kiligaridis had a checkup. He was slightly ill, but the doctors did not prevent him from traveling and competing in Poland.
The Greek mission left Greece on May 27, in view of the 3rd World Cup. Michalis Papasavvas traveled to Poland with Kiligaridis.
When Deputy Minister of Sports, Giannis Ioannidis, was informed of the athlete’s condition, he contacted the representative of the Federation of Canoe Kayak, Antonis Nikolopoulos, and expressed his compassion and solidarity. “I am at your disposal for anything Andreas needs,” he said representing the Greek state.
Nikolopoulos said, “We are doing everything possible for Andreas, even from a distance. We have mobilized our consulate in Warsaw, we have contacted many doctors.” He continued, “We have convened a scientific council in Poland, on our own initiative. Many doctors from other hospitals in Poland will go there so that they do the best they can for Andreas.”
Kiligaridis’ wife has departed for Poland, with expenses covered by the Greek Federation, and will be welcomed by the Greek Ambassador in Poland, Tasia Athanassiou.
See all the latest news from Greece and the world at Greekreporter.com. Contact our newsroom to report an update or send your story, photos and videos. Follow GR on Google News and subscribe here to our daily email!
