Panagiotis Vasilelis case: Family seeks clarity on donated funds

The family of Panagiotis Vasilelis is seeking answers regarding the fate of 100 million drachmas collected through public donations for his medical treatment. In 1999, at 18 months old, Panagiotis was diagnosed with a fourth-stage neuroblastoma, an aggressive form of cancer that required specialized stem cell therapy at Memorial Hospital in the United States.

While a massive wave of solidarity resulted in significant donations, bureaucratic issues led to the funds being frozen by the bank. This delay prevented the child from traveling to the U.S. in time for treatment. Panagiotis passed away on March 5, 2001, just two days after an order was issued to release part of the funds.

Following his death, a long legal battle ensued regarding the frozen account and liability. The family's lawyer, Evangelos Gigkilinis, has raised questions about the current status of the donated money and has issued a new extrajudicial notice to the National Bank.