Dimitrios Stais was born in Kythira in 1869 (or 1872), coming from the prominent Stais-Aspronychis family. At the age of 16, he moved to Smyrna, where he studied at the Evangelical School. He then studied medicine in Athens and Paris, focusing on gynecology and pathology.
After completing his studies, he settled in Smyrna and practiced medicine. He was director of the obstetrics department of the Greek Hospital of Smyrna and later of the English Hospital, gaining great renown in his field. His contributions were not limited to the medical field, as he distinguished himself for his scientific presence at conferences in both Smyrna and Athens. At the same time, he served as president of the Kythirian Brotherhood of Smyrna, demonstrating his interest in his homeland.
In 1913, he returned to Athens, where he remained until 1919, before returning to Smyrna. After the Asia Minor Catastrophe of 1922, he spent some time in Chios and then settled in Athens, where he took up the position of Director of the Athens Municipal Maternity Hospital.
In 1945, Dimitrios Stais returned to Kythira and in 1947 he assumed the position of President of the Community of Kythira, a position he held until 1955. During his tenure, important infrastructure projects were implemented on the island, such as the water supply, the redevelopment of the central square, the asphalting of the main road, and the establishment of a small medical clinic-hospital.
Dimitrios Stais had a daughter, Melpomene, from his marriage to Maria Apostolidou. Melpomene married shipowner Nikolaos Livanos, a member of the well-known Livanos family. In memory of her parents, she financed the construction of the new hall of the Kythira Association, which was named «Dimitrios Stais Hall» in honor of her father.
Dimitrios Stais lived a rich and full life, contributing greatly to both the medical community and the local community of Kythira. He passed away in 1964 in Athens, leaving behind a valuable legacy for his homeland and the scientific community.
(Information from the edition by Koula Kasimati: Smyrna – The Greater Kythira)
