Hidden in the name Syndrome K was another small act of defiance. Besides sounding like the ominous disease the doctors wanted the Nazis to believe it was, the “K” was named after two high-ranking Nazis who were involved in the occupation of Rome, Albert Kesselring and Herbert Kappler.
Syndrome K did work, but it is not known how many people were saved because of it. Just as the plan had intended, when Nazis inspected the hospital, they avoided Syndrome K patients to avoid the illness. Staff at Fatebenefratelli, particularly Giovanni Borromeo, have been honored for their efforts during the Holocaust. If their plan had gone even slightly wrong, then their lives and the lives of those they tried to save would have been in severe danger.
Small acts of resistance like Syndrome K were not what put a stop to Nazi Germany, but they did demonstrate extraordinary selflessness and bravery. Plus, staff at Fatebenefratelli Hospital got to humiliate some Nazis by making them afraid of a fake disease. Small victories are still victories.
Top Image: National Museum of Health and Medicine
Related: 5 Terrifying Diseases From History (People Just Made Up)
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