Corfu, December 3 – The ‘Elpida Zois’ (Hope for Life) Assisted Reproduction Program, a joint initiative by InterMed and the non-profit organization Be-Live, has successfully facilitated the birth of three healthy babies in the Diapontia Islands and Corfu over the last year. This program aims to support infertile couples, particularly those in remote areas of Greece who face financial constraints in accessing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments and related examinations.
Program ‘Elpida Zois’ Supports 16 Couples
Currently, the ‘Elpida Zois’ program provides crucial assistance to 16 couples from the Diapontia Islands and Corfu. Beyond the three recent births, more joyful arrivals are anticipated in the near future, underscoring the program’s growing success and impact on these communities.
Addressing Demographic Challenges in Greece
Greece has been grappling with a severe demographic problem in recent years, a critical issue with significant implications for its society and future. Initiatives like ‘Elpida Zois’ are becoming increasingly vital in an era where social and economic challenges often deter young people from starting families.
Ioulia Tsetis, President of OFET, commented on the program’s positive developments: “The average birth rate in the EU has fallen to a historic low of 1.35 births per woman, and in Greece, it stands at 1.26. This declining birthrate, coupled with an aging population, negatively impacts not only society but also the economy, labor market, and overall productivity. We believe it is our duty to support the demographic challenge and Greek society by offering ‘Hope for Life’ to young people. Our decision to select couples from the Diapontia Islands for this program is deliberate, as these barren and remote areas of the country are our border guards who ‘hold the Thermopylae,’ and we owe them our respect and support.”
Exceeding Expectations: Dr. Vassilis Kellaris on ‘Elpida Zois’
Dr. Vassilis Kellaris, the visionary and co-founder of Be-Live, expressed his satisfaction with the program’s outcomes: “The results to date have exceeded initial expectations and validate our commitments. Our organization has already received six requests through the ‘Elpida Zois’ program. Three couples are now holding the babies they dreamed of, and another pregnancy is currently underway.”
Support for Cancer Patients and Future Fertility
In a demonstration of heightened sensitivity towards individuals with increased needs, InterMed and Be-Live also jointly supported a young woman diagnosed with lymphoma. Through the program, she underwent cryopreservation of her eggs for future use, offering her hope and options for building a family after her treatment.
Dr. Kellaris further emphasized the importance of collaborations in addressing the demographic crisis: “We are particularly grateful that a strong group in the pharmaceutical industry recognizes our work and vision and actively supports our efforts. In a society challenged by population aging and low birth rates, the contribution of everyone is crucial. The future of fertility and the response to the demographic challenge are being written here.”
The partnership between InterMed and Be-Live underscores a commitment to providing tangible assistance to infertile couples, especially those who lack the financial means to cover the costs of IVF and related medical procedures. This initiative not only offers hope to individual families but also contributes to addressing a broader national concern regarding population decline.
Source: https://www.topontiki.gr/2025/12/03/tria-mora-gennithikan-sta-diapontia-nisia-ke-tin-kerkira-mesa-apo-tin-elpida-zois/
