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Tzanakis' daughter: 'He fought as few have, was hurt, but never held a grudge'
🇬🇷 Greece /Culture & Society

Tzanakis' daughter: 'He fought as few have, was hurt, but never held a grudge'

From Ta Nea · () Greek

Translated from Greek, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Outcome reported
  • The daughter of the late Greek politician Andreas Tzanakis has shared a heartfelt tribute, describing him as a deeply humble man who loved his family above all else.
  • She detailed his nine-month battle with a rapidly progressing motor neuron disease, emphasizing his dignity and concern for loved ones despite immense suffering.
  • The tribute highlights his enduring sense of humor and tenderness, even when confined to bed, painting a picture of a devoted father and husband.

The daughter of the late Greek politician Andreas Tzanakis has shared a deeply personal tribute to her father, aiming to reveal the true man behind his public persona. She described him as a profoundly humble individual who prioritized his family and their truth above external opinions.

My father was a deeply humble man. He never wanted us to focus on the comments and opinions of others. 'We know our truth,' he always said.

— Daughter of Andreas TzanakisDescribing her father's humility and focus on family.

She recounted his brave, nine-month fight against a motor neuron disease, a battle that progressed rapidly and severely. Despite the physical challenges, including paralysis and difficulty speaking and swallowing, she stated he never complained. She recalled one instance where he quietly expressed exhaustion, but even then, he held onto hope.

Her tribute emphasized his unwavering love for his wife and children, whom he called his "two girls." She noted that even as his health declined and he required constant oxygen support, he remained concerned for his loved ones' well-being. He would often tell his wife, "I'm leaving… I don't want you to cry, I want you to laugh," a testament to his strength and spirit.

I'm leaving… I don't want you to cry, I want you to laugh.

— Andreas TzanakisHis words to his wife as his health declined, showing his concern for his family.

Despite his suffering, Tzanakis maintained his sense of humor and tenderness, finding ways to make his family laugh even from his sickbed. His daughter concluded by affirming he was the best father she could have asked for, a sentiment underscored by his lifelong dedication to his family.

He fought as few have, he was hurt, but he never held a grudge.

— Daughter of Andreas TzanakisReflecting on her father's resilience and character during his illness.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Ta Nea in Greek. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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