In a heartwarming display of cross-border solidarity, a 4-year-old Turkish boy, Çağatay Dramalı, who underwent a life-saving stem cell transplant two years ago, was reunited with his Greek donor, Aleksandros Apostoludas, in Athens.
The reunion, organized to promote stem cell therapy in Greece, marked a poignant moment for both families. It was the first time the two individuals had met in person, as international regulations prohibit contact for two years after the transplant.
Former Greek Prime Minister Lukas Papadimos, government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis, and Turkish Ambassador to Athens Çağatay Erciyes attended the event, adding significance to the occasion.
Adding a further layer of emotion, Cihan Dramalı, Çağatay’s father, revealed that his ancestors had emigrated from Drama, Greece, a century ago during the population exchange between Türkiye and Greece. “We have Greek roots, which is why we acquired the surname Dramalı,” he explained.
Cihan Dramalı expressed his gratitude for Apostoludas’ selfless act, calling him a “brother.” Hande Dramalı, the mother, emphasized the importance of stem cell donation, saying, “We were fortunate. We might have been in serious difficulty if we hadn’t been able to find a donor.”
Apostoludas, equally moved by the experience, shared his joy at being able to help Çağatay. He recalled the moment he learned he was a match, saying, “Words cannot adequately explain it. I’m feeling so overwhelmed.”
Former Prime Minister Papadimos highlighted the event’s emotional impact and emphasized the importance of supporting initiatives that promote stem cell transplantation.