The book "Tearing My Papers," a work from the later period of the author, represents Konstantinos Gardikas' farewell to the medicine he loved so much. The legendary pathologist officially closes his practice, and on this occasion, he reflects on his entire journey.
It is indeed a diverse read that in some ways constitutes a continuation of "Chronicle of an Incurable... Doctor," as it includes an account of his entire career, interesting and memorable cases of patients, as well as aphorisms and thoughts that this tireless scientist and researcher recorded on various subjects.
It stands as an undeniable testament to the multifaceted interests of Konstantinos Gardikas, which extended far beyond the medicine he successfully served for over half a century.
Konstantinos D. Gardikas was born in 1913 in Alexandria, Egypt. In 1929, he completed his six-year high school education and subsequently passed examinations to enter the Medical School of the University of Athens. He graduated with honors and received his specialty in pathology at Evangelismos hospital.
After 1945, he undertook further education as a scholarship holder of the British Council in Manchester, and in 1968 he was elected professor at the Medical School of the University of Athens. Alongside his clinical, research, and educational work, K. D. Gardikas developed a rich writing activity.
Some of his most well-known works include: Hematology (1954), Contemporary Medical Problems (1961), Advice and Guidelines for Solving Medical Problems (1966), Special Pathology (1971), Disorders of Water and Electrolytes (1974), Hematology (1981), Diagnostic Exercises in Pathology and Diagnostic Errors (1985), Laws Governing the Political Life of Our Country (2000), National Health Systems of Various Countries (2000), Chronicle of an Incurable... Doctor (2002), among others.
In 1993, in recognition of his exceptional teaching work, he was awarded the Prize for Outstanding University Teaching by the Foundation for Technology and Research. He passed away in Athens in 2003.
Contents: K. D. Gardikas. A Legend of Pathology, 9; A Few Words, 17; Introduction, 19; The Closing of the Practice, 21; Books, 31; My Personal Archive, 43; Manuscripts of Unpublished Talks, 51; Patient Cards, 79; To Oneself (Thoughts and Ramblings), 167; Epilogue, 227.
