ABMDR Details Inside ARMENIAN BONE MARROW DONOR REGISTRY SPRING 2011 Newsletter MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT His Holiness Karekin II joins However sharp my wounds or drained of blood or orphaned, my yearning heart turns there with love. the life-saving mission of the ABMDR Every time I learn of another Armenian seeking the ABMDR’s help, these words of Charents fill me with resolve. There are hearts the world over yearning for a bone marrow transplant, turning to us to find a match. As our registry grows, my hope is that in the future we will be able to fulfill a promise for each and every one. Until that time, we will continue to fulfill the promises we have made. We promised to register 20,000 donors in our first decade. We surpassed that number. We promised to establish a Stem Cell Harvesting Center in Yerevan. We opened one of the few in the Caucasus, and in less than a year it has enabled a life-saving transplant. We promised to reach out to all Armenians worldwide. We now have a presence in 13 countries. And we have promised to save lives. We have facilitated 12 transplants. As we enter our second decade, we have more promises to make and fulfill. We promise to add 10,000 more donors to the Registry this year. We’re halfway there already! We have earned the honor of being chosen as the first registry in the Caucasus to host a meeting of the prestigious European Federation for Immunogenetics later this year. We promise to work toward our goal of a transplant center in Armenia. We have launched a campaign to do this. Since its inception, the ABMDR has been a beacon of hope and a crucible for our people in the homeland and the diaspora to come together and forge a resource for all who suffer from life-threatening blood diseases. Turn to us, yearning hearts, and I promise we will respond with determination, and with love. Frieda Jordan, PhD, President

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR There are many issues that divide us. How inspiring it is to be part of an organization that unites us, irrespective of origin, denomination, or political affiliation. The ABMDR draws Armenians from all walks of life and convictions, inspiring them to work together toward a higher good. His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, registering Mark Geragos, Esq. Chairman of the ABMDR Board of Directors as a stem cell donor at his residence in Echmiadzin, Armenia.

“This is an important day filled with blessings. I encourage MESSAGE FROM THE HON. CHAIR the citizens of Armenia, as well as Armenians throughout the The ABMDR has a vital presence in the Caucasus, especially through the Stem Cell Harvesting Center. The diaspora, to actively participate in the work of the registry, with next logical step is the creation of a transplant center the understanding that it might be one of us who can give the gift in Armenia, to provide life-saving services to patients throughout the region. of life. I express my gratitude and appreciation to all those who are supporting the Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registry.” Dr. Bella Kocharian Former First Lady of Armenia, His Holiness Karekin II Honorary Chair of the ABMDR

SPONSORS This publication was made possible by generous contributions from:

Glendale Adventist Medical Center

ABMDR News 11.indd 1 6/9/11 4:03 PM ask the doctor More donors, a greater chance of saving lives An interview with ABMDR Executive Director Dr. Sevak Avagyan

During the ABMDR’s tenth-anniversary celebrations last year, it was announced that you sought to add 10,000 additional potential donors to the Registry. Why is this important? Only 30% of patients in need of a stem cell transplantation will find a match in their own family. The others rely on unrelated donors to be their match. It is urgent that we develop, expand, and maintain a registry with a large enough number of unrelated donors to successfully cover the need of transplantations among ethnic Armenians. Right now there are 1,696 patient families seeking a donor match from among our registry. Sevak Avagyan, MD, ABMDR Executive Director. It is often said that joining and supporting the Registry is not only a response to current families in need, but an investment in one’s own family. What does that mean exactly? I don’t know of any family that has not been touched by cancer. In fact, the probability of a man or woman It is urgent that getting the disease is 30-50%, respectively. Every four minutes someone in the U.S. is diagnosed with leukemia, which is the most common cancer among children. In Armenia leukemia accounts for 40% of we maintain a childhood cancers. So, yes, while each one of us is sympathetic to others who are currently suffering, we also know that the likelihood of our own family being in that position sometime in the future is very high. Joining registry large the Registry, helping as a volunteer, donating money for tissue typing: these are all altruistic activities, but also potential investments in your own family — in this generation or the next — when your time of need comes. enough to It sounds like an insurance policy. successfully Yes, that is a good analogy. When you give us your cheek swab, when you help current families in need cover the need of with recruitment drives, when you support our fundraising events every year, you are essentially “paying an insurance premium” for your family’s future. I know we don’t like to anticipate life-threatening illness, but it transplantations is a reality that must be acknowledged and addressed.

among ethnic This is a good way to think about it: most of us want to help others, but it is human nature to be particularly passionate about helping those closest to us. Being involved with the ABMDR is an Armenians. investment in ourselves, and in our extended “Armenian family.” So how are we doing with our drive to register 10,000 more donors? Since the announcement last year, we have already reached the halfway mark! This, along with our recently established Stem Cell Harvesting Center, our strong position in the international medical community, and our global reach, bodes well for a productive and successful year ahead. And we will be poised to achieve our next goal: a stem cell transplantation center in Armenia.

Help us save lives. Support our efforts to establish a bone marrow transplant center The staff of the ABMDR’s HLA Typing Lab (Yerevan) with Dr. Mihran Nazaretyan (second from left) and Dr. Sevak in Armenia. Avagyan (fourth from left).

ABMDRNewsletter | SPRING 22011

ABMDR News 11.indd 2 6/9/11 4:03 PM Toward the goal of establishing a bone marrow transplant center in Armenia An interview with ABMDR Medical Director Dr. Mihran Nazaretyan We know that the ABMDR hopes to see the establishment of a transplant center in Armenia in the very near future. Why is this important? While the ABMDR’s Stem Cell Harvesting Center is a singular healthcare achievement in the history of Armenia, the feasibility of saving lives through bone marrow transplantation still eludes the vast majority of patients in the country. As a result, patients suffering from potentially fatal blood-related diseases must travel abroad to Dr. Mihran Nazaretyan, receive the life-saving transplants they so desperately need. Most residents of Armenia cannot afford even a MD, PhD, MPH, fraction of the costs, which include travel, bone marrow acquisition, and transplant-procedure expenses. ABMDR Medical Director. This means that an alarming number of patients requiring a transplant are unable to receive treatment and therefore may face losing their lives.

What will it take to have a transplant center in Armenia? Two things: the financial support as well as full backing and logistical go-ahead of the Armenian government. We must begin with seed funding from the government. I am confident that with a green light from the government, and an initial subsidy, the additional funding will come, as we so gratefully experienced with the campaign for the Stem Cell Harvesting Center.

Has there been progress? Currently the ABMDR is lobbying the government for its support of the transplant center. We are also reaching out to our benefactors, and the public at large — in the diaspora and Armenia alike — to help us in these efforts. We must have the political will to be able to move forward with this initiative. Once the Armenian government stands firmly behind the project and initial funding is secured, we know we can mobilize our long-standing partners — and new ones — to marshal support through a variety of sources and conduits including fundraisers, corporate grants, and individual philanthropic gifts, in addition to a government subsidy.

Any final thoughts? The creation of a bone marrow transplant center in Yerevan would mean a great leap forward for Armenian healthcare. At long last the Armenian public would have access to locally available, affordable, and life-saving bone marrow transplantation. Imagine the prospect of a world-class medical facility in the heart of Armenia, helping save lives and bringing the gift of hope to thousands in the homeland and beyond. The time to act is now.

Having a bone marrow transplant center in Armenia is important for so many reasons

Going through the transplant process is a very intensive, emotionally trying time for the patient and the family. If there are no facilities in the patient’s own country, there is the added stress of traveling to an- other country, where there are language and cultural barriers, and the isolation of being away from the support base of extended family and friends. And then there is the economic factor. To send a patient to one of the major centers in Western Europe or the U.S. costs four or five times what it would in Armenia. There is the added challenge that there is only so much capacity at these other centers to respond to trans- plant requests, which may mean delays for patients in critical need. I wish the ABMDR much success in establishing its own transplant center in Armenia — it will be a tremendous benefit for so many. Dr. Stuart Siegel Director, Children’s Center for Cancer and Blood Diseases, Dr. Stuart Siegel. Children’s Hospital Los Angeles

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ABMDR News 11.indd 3 6/9/11 4:03 PM the joys of giving

Donor helps save life Letter from an Italian transplant through first-ever ABMDR stem patient to her donor in Armenia cell harvesting procedure Dear Boris,

My parents and I are delighted to have received news from you. You do not know the emotion I felt reading your let- ters. Thanks for the beautiful design, your beautiful gifts. Are the pictures in the Armenian language? I checked with the Internet and it seems they are. I’m fine and I wish the same for you and your loved ones.

Unfortunately the hospital has removed the names of places you have been working and studying at, but, anyway, I’m happy for you, especially for the promotion signed with the pen that you got for me!

Dear brother, I am very happy at the moment as in May I will make my first, three-day-long, trip away from home. I am going with schoolmates and teachers to France.

The donor (second from left) with his family. Are you visiting Italy again someday?

I never asked about your life, whether you have brothers or On June 16, 2010 the ABMDR team performed the first sisters, if you live with your parents or have a family of your stem cell harvesting procedure — the first-ever in the own. I have two sisters older than me. One is the same age as yours. medical history of Armenia. It was also a historic day I really like spending some time on the computer. I checked for the donor, who flew in from Iran to donate his stem out a site about Armenia, just to know more about your coun- cells for a patient in Belgium. Here a few words from try. Do you like the computer thing?

that donor: “It’s been an honor to help save somebody’s It is over a year that my parents gave ma a little hamster (a life through this procedure. My heartfelt thanks to the female) because I like animals very much. I am happy now, although I would have preferred to have a dog. ABMDR, and I wish great health and long life to the As June 26 is approaching and that’s your 28th birthday, I patient in Belgium.” thought to send you a bracelet with the first letter of my name, “S.”

I do not know the size of your wrist and I left you more w mesh, so you can adjust it if it does not fit properly.

I am looking forward to hearing from you and I wish you all the joy you can get in the world.

x — May 2010

Presents sent from our Italian transplant patient to her donor in Armenia.

ABMDRNewsletter | SPRING 42011

ABMDR News 11.indd 4 6/9/11 4:03 PM news from the lab Stem Cell Harvesting Center close to receiving accreditation I had the pleasure of visiting the ABMDR laboratory in Armenia in October 2010, to help prepare for our international accreditation process for the Joint Accreditation Committee — International Society for Cellular Therapy and European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (JACIE). It is very poignant to be participating in this, as the ABMDR’s Stem Cell Harvesting Center will be the first internationally accredited center not only in Armenia, but the entire Caucasus region. Dr. Mihran Nazaretyan, Mrs. Armine Hyussyan, and I completed the list of all required Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), in accordance with JACIE’s International Standards for Cellular Therapy Product Collection, Processing, and Administration Accreditation Manual. Dr. Nazaretyan and Mrs. Hyussyan have begun producing collection and processing SOPs, respectively. The application process will proceed after successful implementation of all policies and procedures required by JACIE. Armond Mehdikhani ABMDR staff with volunteer Armond Mehdikhani (second from left). MBA, CLS, MT (ASCP)

ABMDR scientists find uniqueness of shown to be more similar to each other than to other ethnic groups. However, with the exception of the U.S. and Lebanon populations, Armenian genetics in research study subjects from each region had their own characteristic HLA A team of ABMDR scientists and researchers conducted a combinations, which were slightly different than those of individuals study resulting in a scientific paper, “HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-DRB1 from other regions. (Read more about Dr. Jordan’s Prague allele distribution in a large Armenian population sample,” which presentation on page 23). will soon be published in the prestigious scientific journal Tissue Antigens. Conclusions Portions of the study were presented by Dr. Frieda Jordan of the study at the European Federation of Immunogenetics conference The study pre- in Prague, and by Dr. Vergine Madelian at the Armenian Medical sented by Dr. Frieda Inter-national Committee conference in Yerevan. The following is a Jordan, the first- synopsis of the study: ever large-scale Human leukocyte antigens (HLA), also known as transplantation survey of the immu- antigens, are a group of proteins that determine the tissue type of nogenetics of Arme- each individual. They occur in a variety of combinations, and each nian populations, individual is likely to have his/her own unique combination. As a sought to define the result, each individual is likely to have an HLA type that is unique Armenian HLA gene to his/her and different from most others. When looking for a donor profile, compare the immunogenetics of that matches a patient waiting for a transplant, it is these unique various Armenian HLA combinations that are considered for matching. In an effort to subpopulations, and determine how similar or different Armenians from various regions compare them with are in terms of their HLA combinations, the ABMDR undertook a other ethnic groups. The study resulted in detailed evidence con- study of 4,279 unrelated Armenian bone marrow donors from firming that, in terms of immunogenetics, Armenians are relatively Yerevan, Lori, Syunik, Shirak, Gegharkunik, Karabagh, Iran, Lebanon, homogeneous, as grouped in the Eastern Mediterranean sub- and the U.S. Through state-of-the-art high-resolution (DNA) analysis stratum. The specific findings of the study are of vital importance and a sophisticated statistical population-analysis methodology, our to bone marrow and other transplant searches, population-mi- results firmly established the relationship between these Armenian gration studies, and a better understanding of the HLA-disease groups. Overall, in terms of their HLA combinations, Armenians were association.

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ABMDR News 11.indd 5 6/9/11 4:03 PM your family and the ABMDR:

Getting the news that you or a loved one has a life-threatening blood disease is a heart-wrenching experience. Fear and a sense of helplessness are common emotions. That is why it is so important to not only seek the expertise of healthcare professionals, but to get networked with family, friends, community members, and the ABMDR to form a strategic and powerful alliance of both practical and emotional support. As the stories below make clear, the ABMDR helps to empower families to work together and within their communities to organize and publicize recruitment drives, and raise funds for processing DNA samples. When we do this, then, to paraphrase William Saroyan, “see if they will not laugh, sing, and pray again... for when two of them meet anywhere in the world, see if they will not save an Armenian’s life.” Mobilizing communities to help save lives

Charlotte. It was doubly devastating for us, the then-grandparents of a two- and-half-year-old girl, to learn that she was diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. INVESTING IN We were not only deeply concerned about our granddaughter’s health, but anxious about the welfare of the mother, our daughter. THE FUTURE, We admit that at the time we were unaware that an organization known as the Armenian Bone Marrow GIVING HOPE Donor Registry existed. We learned its purpose is to find matches for patients requiring bone marrow transplants TO EVERY for treating blood cancers and autoimmune diseases FAMILY such as aplastic anemia, our Charlotte’s condition. Unfortunately, in discovering that there were no matches We have a registry for her, we also became cognizant that only a small of thousands. But we still percentage of potential donors are registered. With the do not have matched bone cooperation of the ABMDR we took it upon ourselves to organize registration drives, although this is not the most effective course of action as it may be too late to save a marrow donors for all patients. loved one. We collected many samples but no matches. Now, again with the assistance With your help, more people of the Registry, we are going a step further and recommending that more Armenian will receive a transplant. churches as well as other institutions and organizations raise awareness of the grave And more families will have situation by scheduling regular drives to increase the Registry’s donor base. Every a future filled with hope. person who registers makes Charlotte’s life more meaningful as it increases the odds that a life may be saved, even if it is not hers. What an amazing opportunity! How can you help? By Jackie and Aram Jerrehian partnering with the ABMDR, Wynnewood, Pennsylvania 8 you can help save a life! • Join the Registry to Irene Hamptian Katrandjian and her “team” Irene Katrandjian. become a potential of family members and close friends set a precedent for the ABMDR when their bone marrow donor. fundraising efforts over the past seven months yielded donations to the Registry of over $170,000, which • Make a financial covered the costs of over 3,500 tissue typing of donors. contribution or help raise Their intensive email and letter-writing campaign brought funds for tissue typing. to the attention of hundreds of Armenians the urgent • Host a recruitment drive in need for funds to process the samples that put donors your community or through into the Registry. Mrs. Katrandjian has lymphoma and is an organization with searching for a match in order to undergo a potentially which you are affiliated. life-saving stem cell transplant. As a person of Armenian ethnicity, she stands a better chance of finding a match • Organize an educational among donors of a similar genetic make-up. There are many such Armenian patients event within your worldwide searching for a match. The effort in joining the Registry is minimal. The gift community. of life is priceless. ABMDRNewsletter | SPRING 2011

ABMDR News 11.indd 6 6/9/11 4:03 PM a powerful alliance Recruitments for Steve Bodozian and Charlotte at Glendale Memorial Hospital

Dr. Boris Baghdasarian during donor consultation.

Steve Bodozian (third from left) and Arpi Kestenian with ABMDR volunteers and Glendale Memorial Hospital volunteer staff.

The ABMDR also held a recruitment drive for Steve Bodozian in Orange Country, California, at the AYF Ashod Yergat Chapter.

The recruitment effort drew new donors from all walks of life.

A young family signing up. Dr. Nubar Boghossian (left) joining the Registry.

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ABMDR News 11.indd 7 6/9/11 4:03 PM fundraisers for Steve Bodozian

Fundraising efforts for Steve Bodozian, a 26-year-old patient suf- fering from AML, a life-threatening bone marrow disorder, included an event at Revo Café in Glendale as well as Salsa for Life, a St. Patrick’s Day fundraising event, held at NYX Jazz Club in the same city. Salsa for Life was organized and sponsored by Naz Atikian. Below are Revo Café event organizer Arpi Kestenian’s imp- ressions of the fundraiser. The Bodozian family and ABMDR staff at the NYX Jazz Club fundraiser. Steve Bodozian is the fifth from the left.

he fundraising event for Steve Bodozian, held on March 6 at the T Revo Café in Glendale and hosted by singer-songwriter Maria Cozette, was a true success. Every single person who attended the event believed in this important cause and opened their hearts and souls to be able to give a gift of life. The event was also attended by Steve’s father, Mr. Hovig NYX Jazz Club owner Richard Vartanian, who donat- Bodozian’s family and ABMDR staff at the Revo Café Bodozian, brother Sarkis Bodozian, and ed the space for the event, with Dr. Frieda Jordan fundraiser. other family members. Steve’s family ex- and Naz Atikian. tended their appreciation and gratitude to the Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registry and everyone who made this event possible. On behalf of the ABMDR, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the Revo Café, Ida’s Music Production, Sit Catering, Ambrosia Catering, Donna’s Flowers, Yeros Photography, DJ Spinnin, and, of course, the committee members and many other volunteers. The event was made possible

only because everyone gave unselfishly of The NYX event organizers. Choir performance at the Revo Café fundraiser. their time and efforts. One caring heart is all it takes to make a difference. Thank you, everyone! You are true angels. Arpi Kestenian Director, Physician/Managed Care Engagement, Glendale Memorial From left: Maria Cozette, Arpi Kestenian, and Steve’s Hospital and Health Center Salpi Mankerian, Edwin Mamigonian, and Naz Atikian. brother, Sarkis. ABMDRNewsletter | SPRING 2011

ABMDR News 11.indd 8 6/9/11 4:03 PM the growth of the Registry ABMDR Progress Update RECRUITMENTS 20,000 registered donors 2,000 patient requests 2010 2010 1,656 identified matches U.S. WEST COAST ARMENIA (cont.) April 4, St. Vartan and St. Andrew April 8, Russian-Armenian 12 transplants churches, Oakland and Cupertino - (Slavonic) University, Yerevan From U.S. universities to churches in Iran to recruitment drives for Charlotte April 9, State Medical Institute, Yerevan military bases in Armenia, ABMDR recruit- April 7, GMHHC, Glendale April 17, Yerablur Memorial, jointly with the ARS - drive for Charlotte April 19, Gyumri ment teams worked with diverse Armenian April 11, St. Paul Armenian Church, April 20, Olympic Village, Tsaghgadzor organizations to implement recruitment Fresno - drive for Suren April 21-22, Gyumri universities drives, including some special efforts for April 18, Prayer Day for the ABMDR April 23, Annual Torchlight Procession specific patients in their communities. at Prelacy churches in Orange County, April 26, National Assembly, Yerevan Hollywood, Glendale, and Encino as well as May 6, Ministry of Extreme Situations, Yerevan St. Gregory Armenian Catholic Church May 7, Civilitas Foundation, Yerevan During our tenth-anniversary April 24, Prayer Day for the ABMDR at May 11, Ministry of Extreme Situations, year, recruitment teams around Diocese churches in Hollywood Fire Department, Yerevan the globe recruited an astounding and Burbank; May 18, University of Physical Culture, Yerevan 5,000 donors — registering half of Memorial Monument, Montebello, during May 22, Young Women’s Association and Genocide-commemoration ceremony Miasin Youth Organization, Yerevan our goal of 10,000 in just one year. May 1, AGBU MDS School May 26, Wrestling Federation of Armenia, Yerevan May 27, Alex Pilibos School June 4, Word of Life Bible Center, Yerevan June 6, Tavlian Armenian School June 6-10, various military bases July 3- 4, Navasartian Olympic Games June 16, FLEX, American Councils, Yerevan September 19, Ferrahian Festival, Partinia July 9, Police Task Forces, September 26, Nor Serunt Festival Veterans’ Union, Yerevan November 13, ABMDR Walk of September 11, Armsweet Candy Factory, Yerevan Life 2010, Glendale Memorial September 24, Gevorgyan Seminary, Echmiadzin Hospital, Glendale October 11, Vazgen Sargsyan November 27, AYF Olympics, Los Angeles Military Academy, Yerevan November 6-7, Armenian Festival, November 11, Armenian Open University, Yerevan Rancho Mirage November 12, Haybusak University, Yerevan December 6, Orthopedic Hospital and Recruitment workshops, Los Angeles. U.S. EAST COAST Dream Health Laboratory, Yerevan April 24, St. Illuminator’s Church, December 14, American University New York - drive for Irene at Genocide- of Armenia, Yerevan commemoration ceremony April 25, St. Vartan Cathedral, New IRAN York - drive for Charlotte at Genocide- September 24-25, Armenian Church, Tehran commemoration ceremony April 26, Vartali Salon, Manhattan 2011 - drive for Charlotte June 18, Armenian Festival in U.S. WEST COAST Alexandria, Virginia - drive February 14-18, ABMDR Center, Los for Charlotte Angeles - drive for Steve Bodozian September 4-6, AYF Olympics, March 31, GMHHC - drive for Steve Bodozian Philadelphia Ongoing: Recruitments on Wednesdays 2010 5-7 PM at ABMDR offices in Glendale ARMENIA January 8, Kickoff concert in Karabagh ARMENIA February 2, HSBC Bank, Yerevan January 14, Sil Mineral Water Factory, Yerevan March 25, Russian-Armenian January 18, Maralik village (extended family (Slavonic) University, Yerevan search for patient Liana Harutyunyan) March 26, Heritage Party January 25, Gyumri Air Force Base headquarters, Yerevan February 5, Igdir Union

TO HELP IN RECRUITMENT ACTIVITIES, OR START A DRIVE IN YOUR AREA, PLEASE CONTACT THE ABMDR Yerevan Laboratory: 37410-20-8312 [email protected]; [email protected] Los Angeles office: 323-663-3609 [email protected]

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ABMDR News 11.indd 9 6/9/11 4:03 PM recruitments: Armenia

Blood Drive during Annual Torchlight Procession. Joint ABMDR and ARS Blood Drive at Yerablur.

At National Assembly. Speaker Hovik Abrahamyan. At the Open University of Armenia. At Air Force Base in Gyumri.

At Yerevan Police Station. At Yerevan Fire Department. At Gevorgyan Seminary.

At American Councils office. At Military Academy. Wrestling champion Levon Julfalakyan a new donor.

TO HELP IN RECRUITMENT ACTIVITIES, OR START A DRIVE IN YOUR AREA, PLEASE CONTACT THE ABMDR Boston Coordinator Narreh Ghazarians: 339-223-0825 [email protected] Tehran Coordinator Mariet Toumians: 9821-725-645 [email protected] ABMDRNewsletter | SPRING 2011

ABMDR News 11.indd 10 6/9/11 4:03 PM the Registry’s global outreach West Coast

At St. Vartan Armenian Church, Oakland.

Dr. Jordan addressing congregants at St. Andrew Armenian Church (Cupertino) on Easter Sunday.

At Glendale Memorial Hospital.

St. Andrew Armenian Church (Cupertino) recruitment organizers.

At St. Andrew Armenian Church hall, Cupertino.

At the Armenian-American Medical Society of California At Glendale Memorial Hospital. + Health Fair.

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ABMDR News 11.indd 11 6/9/11 4:03 PM recruitments (cont.) East Coast

Hundreds joined the ranks of the ABMDR during recruitments on the East Coast.

In the photos above and on the left: St. Vartan Cathedral (New York) recruitment organizers and volunteers.

At the Armenian-American Medical Society of California Health Fair.

Dr. Frieda Jordan and Dr. Peter Abaci, chair of St. Andrew Armenian Church, Cupertino. ABMDRNewsletter | SPRING 2011

ABMDR News 11.indd 12 6/9/11 4:03 PM youth power

Here’s to a dynamic young generation of Zany humor for a donors and activists great cause: Blood-related diseases can strike people of all ages Laughter for and the ABMDR stands ready to help all patients seeking a Life at donor. While healthy donors the Comedy of all ages are encouraged by stem cell donor registries, Store a younger donor base is a On November 14, benefit — a patient in need can 2010, the ABMDR held its surface many years from now, eighth annual Laughter so the 20-year-old registrant for Life benefit event today who is a match 30 years at the world-famous from now is still a viable donor. Comedy Store in Los According to Dr. Vergine Madelian, the ABMDR’s Angeles. Organized by outreach officer, 50% of critically acclaimed the Registry’s donors are comedian Sam Tripoli under 28 years old, making and the ABMDR Comedy it internationally recognized Night Committee, the as one of the world’s most event featured hilarious dynamic and youngest performances by volunteer registries. comedians Ara Basil, The ABMDR is fortunate Christina Pazsitzky, Owen to have the enthusiastic Smith, Johnny Sanchez, Darren participation of many other Carter, Matt Iseman, and Sam young people too. Youth- Tripoli. Top photo: organizer and support communities, an A great popular success, the comedian Sam Tripoli. Middle and bottom outgrowth of the highly latest installment of Laughter for Life photos: ABMDR Comedy successful Comedy Club and continued the ABMDR tradition of offering outstanding cultural events to draw youth Night Committee and Walk of Life events, have volunteers. attracted more young people to support for its life-saving mission. register as donors as well as to raise funds.

Message from the AYF For the ABMDR’s “Walk of Life” event, we went to our local Southern California AYF chapters and gave presentations on how bone marrow transplants work. We had an AYF team at the “Walk of Life” event and are donating a small amount of money. We hold our AYF Olympics every year during Thanksgiving weekend. The ABMDR was kind enough to come out one of those days and register individuals between the age of 18 and 26 as do- nors. On March 13 the Orange County AYF held its Annual Blood Drive and Luncheon. The donated blood was given to Orange Coast Memo- rial Hospital. We also had a bone marrow drive for Steve Bodozian. The ABMDR was able to register 30 individuals. The ABMDR participated in the AYF Health Fair on May 7 in Kevork Babayan and David Arakelyan of the AYF present Dr. Jordan with a check Glendale. following their fundraising effort for the Walkathon.

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ABMDR News 11.indd 13 6/9/11 4:03 PM young activists

Message from the AGBU been able to carry out this task without the ABMDR, I realized what a great opportunity I adore my Armenian culture, my Ar- support of my fellow scouts as well as the I had to help. menian friends, and my Armenian family. drive I acquired as a result of a personal With just a little hard work, we made a Every day I am honored to interact with experience during my small impact on this amazing organization. a community whose bonds are strong childhood. If a project this beneficial can be done and meaningful. I am able to experi- As a childhood in just a short amount of time, we can make ence it especially through my involve- cancer survivor, I have an even greater impact with just a little ment in the AGBU AYA Scouts. learned to appreciate more effort. As a girl scout, it is my responsi- life at a deeper level, With the same perseverance and drive, bility to serve my community and those and to relate with I hope to lead Armenian youths to volunteer in need. This is why I was delighted to those who struggle and support the ABMDR. help the ABMDR last year. With the with deadly diseases This organization will definitely be help of a group of amazing scouts on a day-to-day ba- hearing more from Aleen Mankerian and I and friends, I was able to raise an im- sis. Since the day I will definitely continue with my involvement pressive amount of money through a Aleen Mankerian. was diagnosed, I have and support for the ABMDR in the many one-day rummage sale. I feel proud to have wanted to reach out to those experiencing years to come. completed this project. I would not have suffering. And when I learned about the Aleen Mankerian Embracing a noble 50% of our registry’s donors are under 28 years old, cause of universal making the ABMDR internationally recognized as one of relevance the world’s most dynamic and youngest registries. Karoline Rostamian, PhD

Years ago I first learned about the support gave me more strength to continue and support us. ABMDR through the media. When I later with this work. I thought about how they could be spoke with Dr. Frieda Jordan, I knew that I continued to contact more ASAs, sleeping in or enjoying a leisurely morning, this was a just cause and my mission in and talked to their members at Pasadena but instead they got up early and came life. When I joined the ABMDR, initially as a City College, Glendale Community College, to show the world that Armenian youths volunteer, I did not expect to be involved in UCLA, UC Irvine, USC, Alex Pilibos, continue to fight for a good cause. Several recruiting young Armenian Chamlian, Sahag-Mesrob, had brought their parents and families with students, but when Dr. Mesrobian, and high schools them. Madelian suggested it I in the Glendale Unified School Like a proud parent, I stood at the loved the idea. District. finish line and watched these students I knew most people did Everywhere I was come to the end of their 4.4-mile walk and not know about the ABMDR, greeted by wonderful said a silent prayer, asking God to continue or if they did, they wrongly Armenian youths and their to watch over our youths and give them assumed that they had to educators. Some students courage and strength. go through a dangerous could meet with me only My prayer is for parents not to procedure to become a in-between classes, or they witness the loss of their children. By the donor. As a result, I expected skipped lunch to meet with grace of God and our community and a lot of resistance and misunderstanding on me. Sometimes I went to three different youth’s support, we at the ABMDR will the part of the community. schools on the same day, and instead of continue our mission to save as many lives I first met with the California State coming back tired, I would come back as possible by finding matches for patients University, Northridge, Armenian Student energized from talking to our youth. Each worldwide. Association (ASA) on a late Friday afternoon. time I went to lecture at a school, I thought I’d like to express my sincere gratitude As I walked into the conference room, I was to myself, As Armenians we are blessed to to our youths and thank their parents for greeted by a number of Armenian students have such youths. raising such wonderful children. who wanted to learn about the ABMDR and Finally came the day of the Walkathon. Without their support we would not how they could help. I was amazed at the I could not believe what I was seeing. have such success. I am looking forward willingness of these students to help and Hundreds of young Armenians had come to working with our courageous youths at support the ABMDR. Their enthusiasm and out at 7:30 on a Saturday morning to walk future walkathons and events. ABMDRNewsletter | SPRING 2011

ABMDR News 11.indd 14 6/9/11 4:03 PM and pre-Walkathon events Message from the Armenian Student At Ferrahian School Association of Cal State Northridge The Cal State Northridge ASA chose to participate in the ABMDR Walkathon because we realized the sense of urgency and importance in helping create a comprehensive database of willing donors. We understand that because we Armenians are a minority, help and hope can come only from other Armenians when a bone marrow transplant is required. It was a simple decision for us to take part in this great event because we knew we could be saving lives by just giving a DNA sample. One of the main goals of the ASA is to serve the Armenian community, and this walk provided the perfect opportunity to do so. We are very glad that the walk was a success, and we look forward to helping the cause even more in the future. Hovhannes Mkhitaryan ASA member Fundraiser at Chamlian School Message from the Armenian Student Association of UC Irvine UC Irvine’s Armenian Student Association was really proud to participate in the Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registry’s Walkathon. We support this cause 100% and we wanted to do our part to contribute to it. It was moving to see people from the community come together and unite for a cause. Our organization will most certainly participate in the next walkathon, where we hope to see even more participants. Armine Ailian ASA member

Anita Torossian and Ani Berberian (standing) with Booster Club members.

Dr. Jordan (left), Chamlian School Principal Vazken Mariette Keshishian of the ABMDR (left) with A parent joining the Registry. Madenlian, and Karine Khudikian of the ABMDR. Chamlian School Vice-principal Rita Kaprielian.

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ABMDR News 11.indd 15 6/9/11 4:03 PM Walk of Life 2010:

Thank you, Glendale Memorial Hospital, for continued major support of Walk of Life.

Armenian Consulate team with Consul General Grigor Hovhannisyan (second from left).

From left: Rev. Dajad Yardemian, Dr. Jordan, His Eminence Arch. Moushegh Mardirossian, Congressman Adam Schiff, and Fr. Vazken Atmajian. City of Glendale team.

Mark Meyers, president of Glendale Memorial Hosp. David Mauss of Glendale Memorial Hospital. Homenetmen Ararat team.

Walk of Life 2010, held in November in Glendale, drew hundreds of participants, among them community leaders and elected officials. The annual 3K/6K walk continues to be especially popular among the youth, with the 2010 turnout including numerous teams from local schools and colleges.

Greg Krikorian and Dr. Karoline Rostamian.

From left: Ani Azar and Dr. Evelyn Baghdasraian of the ABMDR, Hrach Postik, Walkathon Chair Arpi Kestenian, and Dr. Stella Baghdassarian. Walkathon Committee with volunteers at the start of the walk at Glendale Memorial Hospital. ABMDRNewsletter | SPRING 2011

ABMDR News 11.indd 16 6/9/11 4:03 PM strength in community

Ramella Markarian of Glendale Adventist Hospital (third from left) with Dr. Jordan and members of the Armenian-American Medical Society of California’s Ladies’ Auxiliary. Walk of Life 2010 was co-sponsored by Glendale Memorial Hospital and The Walkathon started at Glendale Memorial Hospital, with dignitaries leading the walk. the City of Glendale. The event was chaired by Arpi Kestenian of Glendale Memorial Hospital and had five honorary co-chairs: Glendale City Councilmember Laura Friedman, Congressman Adam Schiff, Senator Carol Liu, Glendale Unified School District Board of Education President Greg Krikorian, and Armenian Consul General Grigor Hovhannisyan. AGBU Scouts team. AYF team

Volunteer musicians and singers with Dr. Jordan. UCLA Armenian Student Association. From left: Salad Farm owners Ara and Salpi Aprahamian, who donated food to the Walkathon, and CV High School volunteer Andre Aboulian.

California State University, Northridge, team. University of California, Irvine, team.

ABMDR Angels team.

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ABMDR News 11.indd 17 6/9/11 4:03 PM a Gala for the spirit and the senses Annual event garners overwhelming community support On the evening of Sunday, July 25, 2010, over 450 supporters joined Match for Life 2010, the annual Gala of the ABMDR. The festive and elegant event, which took place at the Glendale Ballroom of the Hilton Hotel in Glendale, California, celebrated the tenth anniversary of the Registry, honored several outstanding benefactors and volunteers, and helped reaffirm the worldwide Armenian community’s solidarity with the life-saving ABMDR tenth-anniversary award recipients. mission of the ABMDR. Several volunteers and supporters were recognized for their outstanding ser- vice. The ABMDR Founders’ Award was bestowed on Dana Artunian, Mark Geragos, Dr. Bella Kocharian, Stepan Vartanian (left) Harut Sassounian. Congressman Adam Schiff. Dr. Jordan and Tereza Frank Melkonian, and Mark Meyers. Hacobian. Alique Topalian receiv- Mark Meyers, Dr. ing award from Harut Carolann Najarian, “For tonight’s purposes I’m Armenian to the marrow of my bones... Sassounian. Dr. Aida Shirinian The work of this organization has been nothing short of miraculous.” Galustian, and Stepan Vartanian. Jasmen Congressman Adam Schiff Jerahian and Marina Manukian were named Volunteers of the Year, and 14 other volun- teers and supporters received the Special Recognition Award. Major sponsors of Match for Life 2010, which raised $98,000 for various ABMDR projects, included the Daughters of Vartan, Glendale Memorial Hospital, Los Angeles Cancer Network, Mission Wine and Spirits, Design by Naz, Remedy Liquor, and Robert’s Volunteer of the Year Marina Manukian with Dr. Volunteer angels. Catering Services. Jordan and ABMDR Chair Mark Geragos.

From left: Patricia La Croix, Carmen Lukassian, Volunteer of the Year Jasmen Jerahian with Dr. Diana Artunian and Dr. Aida Shirinian Galustian Iline Boghoskhanian, Alvart Badalian, and Sussana Jordan and Mark Geragos. receiving Founders’ Awards from Harut Sassounian. Avagyan. ABMDRNewsletter | SPRING 2011

ABMDR News 11.indd 18 6/9/11 4:04 PM parties with a mission Wine-tasting event Christmas Luncheon June 4, 2010 December 12, 2010

April 30, 2010

From left: Carmen Lukassian, Dr. Jordan, Sophik Zargharian, and Annette Postik.

Above: event host Koko Kalajian saluting the guests.

Right: host and event organizer Nectar Kalajian of the ABMDR (left) with a guest.

Sponsors Mr. and Mrs. Vicken and Salpi Mankerian.

Armenian-American Medical Society of California Ladies’ Auxiliary team with Dr. Varoosh Alaverdian (second from right).

Raffie Kalajian Event sponsor Vicken Mankerian with Rococo in action. Restaurant owners Panos and Vasken Haytayan, who donated the space and food for the event.

From left: Fimi Mekhitarian, Dr. Jordan, event sponsor Naz Atikian, and Dr. Vergine Madelian.

Amy Boyadjian and Lucinee Nazerian.

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ABMDR News 11.indd 19 6/9/11 4:04 PM new connections

Presentation Throughout the year, the ABMDR strives to make new con- at Western Prelacy, La Crescenta nections in the communities it serves, by participating in var- ious events and establishing relationships with a diversity of organizations and institutions. These efforts help us spread the word about the ABMDR mission, raise public awareness of health-related issues, and secure support for our activities and projects.

Meeting with Yerevan Rotary Club

ABMDR Outreach Officer Dr. Vergine Madelian during her presentation at the Western Prelacy.

Presentation for KNB (Kalousdian Noubarian Boghossian) Alumni Association

Western Prelacy Ladies’ Auxiliary Committee.

From left: Noubar Semerjian (Advisor), Fimi Mekhitarian, Armineh Postajian Message from Morre Dean (Secretary), Diana Artunian, Dr. Jordan, Anahit Papaian (Lifetime President), and Sona Minakian (Chair), at the Club’s annual picnic in Los Angeles. of Glendale Adventist Medical Center The mission of Glendale Adventist is “to share God’s The wonderful team of love with our community.” ABMDR supporters known as the A-Z Sisters As the largest provider of healthcare in the community of Glendale, we are privileged to partner with an organization that has a similar mission and shares our passion for helping others. We are proud to support the ABMDR in its efforts to make a difference in this world, and thank the Registry for allowing us to share in this amazing outreach. Morre Dean, President and CEO Glendale Adventist Medical Center

ABMDRNewsletter | SPRING 2011

ABMDR News 11.indd 20 6/9/11 4:04 PM meetings with dignitaries

On February 8 and 9, 2011, respectively, His Eminence Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian and His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian hosted traditional yearly visits by a delegation of the ABMDR. During his meeting with the delegation, Archbishop Derderian pro- claimed April 10 a Day of Prayer for the ABMDR at Diocese churches in Southern California. On his part, Archbishop Mardirossian proclaimed May 1 a Day of Prayer for the Registry at Prelacy churches in the region. On these Sundays, as well as several Sundays in March, April, and May, the ABMDR set up booths outside Armenian churches throughout California, including those of the Armenian Catholic and Evangelical communities, to recruit donors and answer questions regarding bone marrow stem cell transplantation.

At the Western Prelacy

“In light of the fact that 2011 has been declared the Year of the Armenian Child, it would be all the more fitting to launch outreach efforts on May 1. It is the first Sunday following Easter, New Sunday, which symbolizes the start of a new life and would reflect the AB- MDR’s mission of helping give new life to children and adults alike.” — Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian Meeting with Health Minister Dr. Harutune Kushkyan From left: Dr. Avagyan, Dr. Chryssa Papasteriades (European Federation of Immunogenetics Region At the Western Diocese 8 president), Armenia’s Health Minister Dr. Harutune “The ABMDR is a God-pleasing mission entrusted to a group of Kushkyan, and Dr. Jordan. dedicated individuals, under the able leadership of Dr. Frieda Jordan. The aim of this mission is to save the lives of people of all ages. It is the time now for us all to act prudently and equally Meeting with become apostles of Christ and support this mission in every way possible.” — Archbishop Hovnan Derderian Rev. Matossian From left: Dr. Karoline Independence Rostamian, Fimi Mekhitarian, Rev. Joseph Day Celebration, Matossian, Arpi Kestenian, Los Angeles Naz Atikian, and Rev. Jack Chorlian. Consul General Grigor Hovhannisyan, Dr. Jordan, and ABMDR “Under the capable leadership of Dr. Frieda Jordan, the ABMDR Outreach Officer Dr. Vergine Madelian. has made a difference in many lives.” — Rev. Joseph D. Matossian, Armenian Evangelical Union of North America Top 20 Women Achievers Award, 1990-2010 Soroptimist International Ruby Award Dr. Jordan receiving the Soroptimist Dr. Jordan receiving International Ruby Award. The Ruby the Top 20 Women Award honors women who, through Achievers Award their professional or personal efforts, from Business Life are making an extraordinary dif- Magazine Executive ference in the lives of women or Vice-president Greg girls. Their work has had a signifi- Krikorian. cant impact, and also inspires and encourages others. awards

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ABMDR News 11.indd 21 6/9/11 4:04 PM professional activities

Thanks to ABMDR efforts, Armenia will host EFI meeting in November 2011 Decision announced during EFI conference in Athens, Greece

On January 22, 2011, the ABMDR participated in the European Federa- tion for Immunogenetics (EFI) Region 8 meeting in Athens, Greece. The ABMDR was represented by Dr. Frieda Jordan, president of the Registry’s Board of Directors, and Dr. Sevak Avagyan, executive director of the Registry. The event was devoted to Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics Laboratories in the EFI’s Region 8, which includes the Balkans. Dr. Jordan addressed the Athens, Greece, January 2011 meeting with a presentation titled “Organizing a Bone Mar- Clockwise from top left: Dr. Jordan during her presentation; EFI President Ilias row Donor Registry in a Small Doxiadis with members of the ABMDR delegation; Dr. Avagyan and Dr. Jordan with Country.” Her lecture, which Israeli and Greek colleagues. detailed the work and goals of the ABMDR, received high praise from attendees. The Registry’s participa- tion in the meeting was also significant because it led to a major milestone for the ABMDR. At the conclusion of the meeting, organizers discussed venue and date options for the next EFI Histocompatibility and Immuno- genetics Laboratories meeting. Several countries, including Armenia, had presented their candidacy for hosting the meeting. After careful consideration, Armenia emerged as the clear favorite. As it announced its deci- sion, the EFI organizing committee cited the scope and quality of the ABMDR’s work as the main factor in its selection of Armenia. Furthermore, the commit- tee entrusted the ABMDR to organize the meeting, under the auspices of the EFI. The meeting is slated to be held in Yerevan during November 18-20, 2011. Dr. Jordan explained that the EFI meeting in Yerevan will be a great boon “For the first time in history, Armenia will be hosting such a to global cooperation in the immunogenetics field. For many years, she said, high-profile, international scientific symposium. The meet- the ABMDR has been building collaborative relationships between the scientific communities of Armenia and its neighbors. Such broad cooperation will further ing will also be the first of its kind in the region. I think it’s encourage scientists from Russia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Iran to participate likewise important to note that Armenia is the only country in in the EFI meeting in Yerevan, effectively enabling Armenia to function as a the region to have a laboratory, namely the one at the ABMDR science bridge between these countries and Europe, she concluded. Stem Cell Harvesting Center, which is accredited by the EFI.” Dr. Frieda Jordan EFI conference, Florence, Italy, May 2010

Prof. Dr. Mahmut Carin of the Bone Marrow Bank Dr. Avagyan, Armine Huyssyan, and a conference From left: EFI Region 8 President Dr. Chryssa of Istanbul Medical Faculty with Dr. Avagyan at the participant. Papasteriades, Dr. Carin, and Dr. Jordan. conference. ABMDRNewsletter | SPRING 2011

ABMDR News 11.indd 22 6/9/11 4:04 PM worldwide National Marrow Donor Program conference, Groundbreaking Minneapolis, October 2010 Armenian-immunogenetics presentation in Prague, May 2010 At the European Federation of Immunogenetics’ (EFI) 25th Euro- pean Immunogenetics and Histocompatibility conference, held during May 12-17, 2010, in Prague, Czech Republic, at a special session titled “Immunogenetics and Population Ge- netics in Central and Eastern Europe,” ABMDR President Dr. Frieda Jordan pre- sented a groundbreaking study pertain- ing to the immunogenetics of Armenian populations. Dr. Jordan’s analysis was based on over 4,000 individual samples from the ABMDR pool, collected from ABMDR Medical Director Dr. Mihran Nazaretyan addressing the conference. Karabagh, five regions of Armenia, and three diaspora communities comprising The ABMDR delegation, Lebanon, Iran, and the U.S. comprising Dr. Nazaretyan, The study, which compared Ar- Recruitment Officer Fimi menian-population data with data on other populations, as well as the Mekhitarian (far right), and HLA-and-disease association common to the Eastern Mediterranean Outreach Officer Dr. Vergine region (where Armenians are grouped), created great interest among Madelian, at the National conference participants and led to further discussions of the EFI’s col- Marrow Donor Program laboration with the ABMDR and Armenia. and World Marrow Donor During the conference, the ABMDR Board of Directors met with Association conference. the EFI Educational Executive Committee and helped draft the pre- liminary program of the first-ever EFI meeting to be held in Armenia, during November 18-20, 2011. The program will cover a wide range Armenian- of topics including Quality Assurance in HLA Laboratories, EFI Accred- itation, HLA Immunogenetics, DNA Molecular Typing Techniques for American HLA Typing, Stem Cell Transplantation and Engraftment Analysis, Leu- Medical kemia Diagnosis, Organ Transplantation and Screening Techniques, Association HLA-disease Association, and Population Genetics. The topics will be of California covered by experts invited from Europe and worldwide. The Prague conference comprised a broad spectrum of presen- meeting, tations focusing on all aspects of immunogenetics and transplanta- Las Vegas, tion. In addition, new technologies for monitoring pre- and post-trans- October 2010 plantation were presented by various companies. In the run-up to the EFI meeting in Armenia, the ABMDR has received a letter of support from the Armenian Health Ministry, which Above: Dr. Jordan and stated its commitment to inviting experts and healthcare leaders from Dr. Mariam Manoukian. throughout the Caucasus region and the CIS to participate in the pro- ceedings. Right: Dr. Jordan with Currently the ABMDR is seeking sponsors for the prestigious EFI Arsine Kalfayan, PharmD, meeting in Armenia. Interested sponsors are encouraged to contact and Dr. Jerry Manoulian. [email protected] or [email protected] for more information.

Below: Dr. Jordan and Dr. Vergine Madelian.

Dr.s Jordan and Avagyan (third and fourth from left) with colleagues from City of Hope.

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ABMDR News 11.indd 23 6/9/11 4:04 PM thank you, our lifetime supporters!

Stepan Vartanian, Ralph Yirikian, Foundation Laboratory VivaCell-MTS From the very outset, Ste- The greatest indifference is silence to- pan Vartanian wards each other’s pain. If there is the smallest has donated chance to save a life, we encourage all efforts the use of his for that. We want to believe that caring for one laboratory space means life for someone else. for preparing U.S. It is believed that philanthropy knows no donor samples borders. However, in the struggle against differ- for tissue typing ent blood related illnesses the reverse logic ap- in Yerevan. In plies, especially when it comes to saving the life addition, he — of an Armenian. and his wife The world is trying to support people with Linda — and leukemia or anemia through different registries, their children Lala, Taleen, and Ara have provided but it is not always possible: a unique genetic unflinching assistance to our fundraising efforts. structure that differentiates our nation from oth- In 2003 Stepan was named ABMDR Man of the Year ers makes it important to join hands in the struggle for our nation’s health. for his outstanding generosity. That is why VivaCell-MTS supports the Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registry. This year VivaCell-MTS will continue to implement healthcare projects in Armenia, and we look forward to positive results. Wishing you success on your way of overcoming the unconquerable, Arpenik Avagyan Ralph Yirikian and Evgeni Sokurenko General Manager, VivaCell-MTS We decided to become contributors to the ABMDR because of two things: first, to support its Mark Meyers, David Mauss, obviously noble mission; and second, the remark- able enthusiasm Glendale Memorial Hospital Glendale Memorial Hospital and energy that We salute the ABMDR for its far-reaching Glendale Memorial Hospital is proud to support Drs. Jordan and work in medical science, consistent professional- the life-saving mission of the ABMDR. Through col- Avagyan put into ism, and outstanding laborative efforts and sponsorships, Glendale Memo- the project, which service to humanity. As rial Hospital continues to help the Registry achieve is so contagious. the organization remains its donor-recruitment and They both at the forefront of health- community-outreach goals. work relentlessly care innovation in the Today, as we cel- with many orga- Caucasus region, partic- ebrate over ten years of nizations and suc- ularly through its state- partnership with the AB- cessfully spread of-the-art Stem Cell MDR, we applaud its high their humanitarian message in different communi- Harvesting Center, and level of professionalism ties. Their faith and vision have inspired so many, as it continues to bring and consistently outstand- and the continuous growth of the project is, indeed, the hope of bone marrow ing accomplishments, in very impressive. transplantation to patients across the world, we at Los Angeles and beyond, and look forward to work- What makes the Registry special for us is its Glendale Memorial Hospital are as ever proud to ing together toward our shared vision of healthy, core concept, from both cultural and scientific points support its life-saving mission. thriving communities. of view, and the friendly style of recruiting and train- Mark Meyers David L. Mauss ing talented co-workers. President, Vice-president, Business Development, Arpenik Avagyan, MD and Glendale Memorial Hospital Glendale Memorial Hospital Evgeni V. Sokurenko, MD, PhD, Professor, Department of Microbiology, University of Washington Dr. Carolann and George Najarian Aida Shirinian Galustian, MD Armenians around the world are indeed fortunate to have The dedicated their own bone marrow registry. Forged with love and sheer deter- For the Daughters of Vartan mination, the ABMDR has become an internationally recognized past several success story. Lives years, Dr. have been saved and Aida Shirinian lives will continue to Galustian has be saved for decades donated much to come because of her time, those involved with talent, and the ABMDR have resources to approached this the ABMDR: work applying the from medical most vigorous of advice to the office space of our Los standards set forth by the international community — never letting Angeles operations. up and never resting on their laurels. It is for this reason that we Dr. Shirinian Galustian brings continue to support the ABMDR and feel it is a privilege to be part tremendous energy to all her Meline Ouzounian, Grand Matron of the Daughters of of this great effort. volunteer activities, cheering all of Vartan (second from left, standing) with Board mem- Dr. Carolann Najarian us on with her hearty “Bravo.” bers. ABMDRNewsletter | SPRING 2011

ABMDR News 11.indd 24 6/9/11 4:04 PM new donors, loyal contributors

Our newest supporters Glendale Adventist Hospital Hovnanian Foundation Phil and Janet Poetzing Balakian Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Michael Haratunian Mr. and Mrs. James Karanfilian Naida S. Wharton Foundation Grace Hamptian Peter Hamptian Armenian-American Medical Society of California (AAMSC) Thank you, Linda Ardash Gourdikian, and George AAMSC Ladies’ Auxiliary Committee President of the Armenian- Howard Karagheusian Foundation American Middle East Club, Bashirians, Armenian-American Middle East Club presenting Dr. Jordan with for donating Andre’s christening donation to the ABMDR. Thank you, George gifts to the ABMDR. Titizian, ABMDR Man of the Year, w for sponsoring the benefit golf tourna- ment for the ABMDR last spring! How you can Born and raised in Syria, George and his late wife, Arlene, moved with their support children to Los Angeles from Canada in 1983. Since then George has been the ABMDR dedicated to many Armenian causes. We are fortunate to be one of them, and • Instead of receiving gifts at look forward to yet another benefit golf a birthday party or a wed- tournament this year. ding, ask guests to give to the ABMDR. • Pass on an award fund or Save the date: bonus to the ABMDR. AAMSC Board of Directors. Standing, from left: Serineh Voskanian Melidonian, Annual Los Angeles • Donate materials or servic- MD; Leo Polosajian, MD, FACC, MS; Vicken Sepilian, MD, MMS, FACOG; Harry Balian, MD, FACC, FSCAI; and Mireille P. Hamparian, MD. Seated, from left: Trexmen Armenian Open es that the ABMDR needs. Varoosh Alaverdian, MD; FACOG, Nora Papasian, MD; Armen Kassabian, MD; and July 17, 2011 • Host a party at your home Armen J. Cherik, MD, MBA. or business and ask guests The California Country Club in to make a donation to the Whittier, California. Registry. Fee is $175.00 and includes golf, • Sponsor a golf tournament lunch, and dinner; many prizes or other sports event that and raffles. benefits the ABMDR. 50% of the proceeds • Be an Angel on a Tree of will benefit the ABMDR. Hope – send in your check For more information, contact today! Mel Shanoian: 818-521-2173 • You can also give online: or George Titizian: 818-612-5837. just visit abmdr.am and click on “How You Can AAMSC Ladies’ Auxiliary Committee. Help.”

Thankin lieu ofYou flowers for in memory of: George Leney Elize Kohar Saleria Arsham Aftandilian Seda Khatchetourian Mariana Kazarian Aram Ghoujoumian Mariana Kazarian Arlene Titizian Aram Ghoujoumian Souren Ter-Abrahamyan Arlene Titizian

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ABMDR News 11.indd 25 6/9/11 4:04 PM volunteers for life

These are the heroes who help make Christmas Party, Volunteer Appreciation Day, the mission of the ABMDR possible. December 12, 2010 August 2010 The Registry and the worldwide Armenian community alike owe our volunteers a big Thank You for their hard work, unconditional dedication, and continued support. Annual Planning Retreat Day In January 2011 the ABMDR held a planning retreat at the residence of Mariette Keshishian, who facilitated the day-long event. More than 25 members participated.

Newsletter workgroup

ABMDRNewsletter | SPRING 2011

ABMDR News 11.indd 26 6/9/11 4:04 PM a vision of leadership and service

Board of Directors Bella Kocharian, MD, Honorary Chairperson Frieda Jordan, CHS, PhD, President Mark Geragos, Esq., Chairperson Michele Seyranian, Secretary Frank Melkonian, Treasurer Diana Artunian, Deputy Treasurer Sevak Avagyan, MD, Executive Director, Armenia Dr. Varoosh Alaverdian, MD, FACOG Naz Atikian Alvart Badalian, MBA Boris Baghdasarian, MD, DO Evelyn Baghdasraian, MD Chris Courtney Summer 2010 Board meeting. Autumn 2010 Board meeting. Nectar Kalajian Vergine Madelian, PhD David Mauss, GMHHC Carolann Najarian, MD Aida Shirinian Galustian, MD George Titizian Lara Yeretsian, Esq.

Board of Advisors Vasken Kaypekian Mariette Keshishian Armond Aghakhanian Arpi Kestenian Salpi Aprahamian Taleen Khatchadourian Rouben Aroutiounian, Prof., DSc, Karine Khudikian Armenia Amalia Kiureghlian Steve Artinian Carmen Lukassian Christina Ashjian, PharmD Salpi Mankerian Tamara Ashjian, Esq. Marina Manoukyan Walkathon Committee. Susanna Avagyan Armen Margarian Ani Azar Ramella Markarian Arax Badalian Armond Mehdikhani Harmik Baghdassarian Fimi Mekhitarian, Stella Baghdasarian, DDS West Coast Recruitment Officer Marilyn Bazarian Razmik Moghadesian Iline Boghoskhanian Mihran Nazaretyan, MD, PhD, Amy Boyadjian Armenia Hagop Der Meguerditchian, MD Nani Oskanian, MD, Armenia Hratch Doumanian, MD Taleen Peroomian Narreh Ghazarian, East Coast Annette Postik Recruitment Officer Vicken Sonentz Papazian, Esq. Teresa Hacopian Alvart Petrossian, Armenia Diana Hadjinazarian Karoline Rostamian, PhD Edgar M. Housepian, MD Hilda Sarkisyan Vrejh Hovsepian Sam Tripoli Gala Committee with volunteers and supporters. Armen Janian, Esq. Kalust Ucar, MD Jasmen Jerahian Stepan Vartanian, ASCP Mark Kassabian, Esq. Sophie Zargarian

ABMDR offices Yerevan, Armenia Los Angeles, U.S.A. Sevak Avagyan, MD Annual Frieda Jordan, PhD 7, H. Nersisyan St., Planning 3111 Los Feliz Ave. #206 0014, Yerevan, Retreat Los Angeles, CA 90039 Republic of Armenia Day. Tel. (323) 663-3609 Tel: (374 10) 20 83 11 Fax (323) 662-3648 Fax:, (374 10) 20 93 12 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] site: abmdr.am Printing & production of ABMDR Newsletter donated by redtagprintsale.com. Design & editing by Ishkhan Jinbashian.

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ABMDR News 11.indd 27 6/9/11 4:04 PM UPCOMING EVENTS

Flyer ABMDR2011-2_Layout 1 5/17/11 3:24 PM Page 4 The Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registry SAve THe DATe Give THe GifT of Life Help ethnic Armenians everywhere who suffer from life threatening blood diseases. Reserve your tickets for “Match for Life 2011” Gala

Walk of AWARD RECIPIENTS T HE A RMENIAN B ONE M ARROW D ONOR R EGISTRY Saturday October 22, 2011 VERGINE MADELIAN, Ph.D. MATCH FOR Woman of the Year 3K/6K Walk Help raise money LIFE 2011 for ABMDR 2011 Have Family Fun Day GEORGE TITIZIAN GALA Life Man of the Year In Partnership with Glendale Memorial Hospital and Health Center

ANI AZAR Glendale Memorial Hospital to Verdugo Park Dinner at Tiffany’s Volunteer of the Year ENTERTAINMENT BY End Verdugo Park . 1621 Canada Blvd. RegistRation at staRt: lvd VICTOR ESPINOLA ARMEN MOVSESSIAN ALEXANDER ZHIROFF (222 Eulalia St, off of Brand) EVELYN BAGHDASRAIAN, M.D. B 7:30-8:30 am Volunteer of the Year THE MOST POPULAR, TALENTED, FAMOUS PERFORMERS FROM erduGo v opening CeRemony: . ve 8:30 am THE FORBIDDEN SAINTS a “ ” Walk: SOPHIK ZARGARIAN lendale 9:00 am MASTER OF CEREMONIES G Volunteer of the Year Broadway St. VeRdugo paRk FestiVities: MARK GERAGOS ESQ., ABMDR Chairman Half Way Point Glendale City Hall 10:30 AM - 2:30 PM 613 E. Broadway 4OVER, INC. SUNDAY, JULY 31, 2011 Business of the Year 6:00 PM - COCKTAILS For More PM INNER venue 7:00 - D information call: a eulalia St. 323-663-3609 GLENDALE HILTON

entral Start www.abmdr.am 100 WEST GLENOAKS BOULEVARD, GLENDALE C Glendale Memorial Hospital 222 Eulalia St

For more information or tickets please call: WALK VIRTUAL WALK RUN FOOD MUSIC AJOR VENT PONSOR Amalia Kiureghlian: 818-389-4202 M E S MAjOR SPONSORS ABMDR Office: 323-663-3609 or e-mail [email protected] DONATION: $125.00

Poster Walk 2011.indd 1 5/25/11 12:43:57 PM ABMDR Lottery tickets inside Raffle will be drawn during ARMENIAN MATCH FOR LIFE 2011 GALA BONE MARROW Glendale Hilton, July 31 DONOR REGISTRY (Need not be present to win) 3111 Los Feliz Blvd., Suite 206 Buy your tickets in support Los Angeles, CA 90039 of the ABMDR’s life-saving mission abmdr.am and ongoing projects. You can win one of several fabulous prizes!

BE AN ANGEL, SAVE A LIFE

ABMDR News 11.indd 28 6/9/11 4:04 PM