Greek Parents Forced to Pay for Children's Breathing: A Cry for State Intervention

Athens, Greece – Parents across Greece are facing an unimaginable burden, forced to pay substantial amounts for their children's life-sustaining respirators, as the National Organization for the Provision of Health Services (EOPYY) reportedly fails to cover these essential costs. A recent report by Alpha TV sheds light on the harrowing reality faced by families whose children are entirely dependent on mechanical ventilation. One mother, whose 17-year-old child relies on a respirator, stated in the report, "Five minutes without a respirator, and he would die. It's a matter of life and death." She explained that parents are forced to rent these vital devices from private companies, incurring monthly expenses of approximately 175 euros. Over five years, this amounts to nearly 10,000 euros, a significant financial strain on families already grappling with the challenges of caring for a child with severe health needs. Another mother, whose 10-year-old child also requires constant respiratory support, expressed her anguish: "If it breaks down, they risk being without their own breath. That's why we have to do Ambu." She added, "It's a shame, truly." The report reveals that there are at least 60 other children in Northern Greece alone who are entirely dependent on mechanical support and cannot breathe autonomously. Their parents are fighting a daily battle, not only to secure the equipment but also to ensure its continuous technical support. Parents interviewed by Alpha TV emphasized that their children cannot speak, walk, or vote, making them a vulnerable demographic whose needs are often overlooked. They highlighted the immense pressure on parents who must work simultaneously to cover these exorbitant costs while also providing round-the-clock care. Alpha TV reached out to the Ministry of Health for a response regarding this critical issue but had not received a reply at the time of reporting. The parents' appeal to the state is clear and urgent: intervene immediately to ensure that no child is left without the necessary respirator due to bureaucratic hurdles or financial constraints, and that access to air is a fundamental right, not a paid privilege.