GR
At the 34th Nationwide Thoracic Conference, the blind lawyer and President of the NPO “Me Alla Matia”, Vangelis Avgoulas, was invited to deliver a speech at the conference’s closing ceremony, thanks to the kind support and connection of the pharmaceutical company Chiesi Hellas.
During his speech, Mr. Avgoulas emphasized the need for modern, human-centered, experiential education for doctors, aiming to familiarize them with disability so that medical facilities, instructions, and services become more accessible.
The conference successfully concluded on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at the Divani Caravel Hotel.
As part of the conference’s social contribution, the closing ceremony supported the social organization “AGAPI”, which assists vulnerable groups and families, especially during the Christmas period. This initiative, along with similar ones, was highlighted by the Deputy Minister of Social Protection and Family, Elena Rapti, who honored the ceremony with her presence.
An honorary plaque was awarded to Mr. Vangelis Avgoulas by the Hellenic Thoracic Society, recognizing his work as the founder of “Me Alla Matia” and the society’s support for actions promoting equal access for disabled people to healthcare facilities.
Regarding the proposed training seminars, the Hellenic Thoracic Society’s Board of Directors committed to taking the initiative to organize them in 2026, with the goal of familiarizing doctors with visual, mobility, and auditory disabilities. In collaboration with “Me Alla Matia”, these seminars aim to foster inclusive planning and mindset, creating a meaningful bridge of understanding and support between doctors and patients. The pharmaceutical company Chiesi Hellas also pledged active support, promoting all “Me Alla Matia” awareness actions at its booth throughout the conference.
Additionally, the conference honored Emeritus Professor Despoina Papakosta of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki for her long-standing contribution to pulmonology. Professor Katerina Manika spoke about her work and career.
As every year, awards and commendations were given for the best oral and poster presentations.
The President of the Hellenic Thoracic Society, Professor Stelios Loukidis, concluded the conference by calling it highly successful, noting that registered participants reached 1,000.
See you in 2026 at the 35th Nationwide Thoracic Conference!
Learn more about the Hellenic Thoracic Society here.
