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Narine is a heroic child, who, thanks to the state program of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Armenia, the fundraising efforts of the Health Fund for Children of Armenia, and the dedication of a remarkable medical team, has overcome serious health challenges and is now smiling wholeheartedly, step by step returning to normal life.
At just eight years old, Narine was diagnosed with a malignant liver tumor (hepatoblastoma) affecting both the right and left lobes of her liver. The large tumor involved the right and partially the left lobes of the liver. While receiving preoperative chemotherapy, on July 6, 2025, Narine developed severe pneumonia and myocarditis and was transferred to the Arabkir Medical Center, where she was treated for 15 days in the Resuscitation and Intensive Care Unit.
To determine the next steps in her treatment, the professional team of the Arabkir Medical Center conducted comprehensive examinations. The findings were discussed with Belarusian transplant surgeons and leading Japanese specialists. Following these consultations, it was decided that an urgent liver transplant would be necessary to save the child’s life. Narine’s father volunteered to be the donor.
At the same time, specialists considered the possibility of performing an extended liver resection, a technically challenging operation since the tumor had invaded the right lobe and several segments of the left. Though difficult, this option was preferable because it would allow Narine to keep part of her own liver.
The medical team at the Arabkir Medical Center, together with colleagues from Minsk, Belarus, prepared for both scenarios simultaneously — either a transplant or an extended resection.
On September 28, 2025, surgery was performed. The team successfully carried out an extended hemihepatectomy, preserving about 30% of Narine’s own liver, while her father waited in an adjacent operating room, ready to proceed with a transplant if necessary. The tumor was completely removed, and Narine was able to retain her own liver.
According to international colleagues, performing such an operation is far more complex than a standard transplant.
Although the surgery was successful, Narine developed acute liver failure in the early postoperative period due to the small size of the remaining organ and tissue swelling. The doctors at Arabkir Medical Center faced serious challenges but skillfully organized intensive therapy that replaced liver function and brought the young patient safely out of danger.
Today, with a bright smile and unshakable faith, Narine believes she will soon return home and fulfill her cherished dreams. Her story is yet another testament to the dedication and heroism of the Arabkir Medical Center’s professional team.
During her stay at the hospital, Narine even drew a touching picture of the Arabkir Medical Center and the airplane that brought the Belarusian specialists who helped save her life.
