After Losing Their Son, Greek Couple Welcomes Baby Girl from Embryo Frozen for 22 Years

Athens, Greece — September 11, 2026

A Greek couple has welcomed a baby girl after using an embryo that had been frozen for more than 22 years, following the devastating loss of their 21-year-old son.

Cristina Rapti-Tzelepi, 54, and her husband, Constantinos Raptis, 60, welcomed their daughter, Georgia, in Athens on September 9. The baby weighed 3.49 kilograms (7 pounds, 11 ounces) at birth.

A New Baby After a Family Tragedy

The couple decided to use one of their previously frozen embryos after their only son, Giorgos, died in a road accident in October 2025.

Rapti-Tzelepi told the Associated Press that the family was still grieving when they decided to move forward with the embryo that had been preserved for more than two decades.

The couple named their daughter Georgia in memory of Giorgos. They described her arrival as a new beginning for their family after a period of profound loss.

The Embryo Had Been Frozen for More Than Two Decades

The embryo used for the pregnancy had been frozen for more than 22 years. According to the Associated Press, the length of time the embryo had remained frozen is unusually long, although it is not a world record.

The pregnancy also came with a strict deadline. Greek regulations set an age limit of 54 for women undergoing IVF procedures and receiving the necessary approval. Rapti-Tzelepi had only a limited period in which to complete the process.

She said the process was stressful, but that she was supported by her doctor and his medical team throughout the treatment.

Baby Georgia Brings a New Chapter

Photos released after the birth showed Rapti-Tzelepi holding her newborn daughter at a private maternity clinic in Athens, while Raptis held the baby in his arms.

The couple said they hope Georgia will grow up healthy and happy. For them, her birth represents a continuation of their family following the loss of their son.

The couple has not ruled out having another child in the future, although Greece’s age restrictions could mean they would need to consider treatment outside the country.

Sources

• Associated Press — After tragedy, a Greek couple welcomes a daughter born from an embryo frozen for 22 years — September 11, 2026.
• PEOPLE — After Family Tragedy, Woman, 54, Gives Birth to Baby Girl from 22-Year-Old Frozen Embryo — September 12, 2026.
• CBS News — Months after son killed in crash, couple welcomes daughter born from embryo frozen 22 years — September 14, 2026.
• eKathimerini — After tragedy, a Greek couple welcomes a daughter born from an embryo frozen for 22 years — September 11, 2026.