For Immediate Release ~ January 12, 2012

Yerevan, January 12, 2012- The Hayastan All-Armenian Fund recently completed an extensive renovation of the Nephrology and Dialysis departments of Yerevan’s St. Gregory the Illuminator (Surb Grigor Lusavorich) Hospital. The refurbishment was made possible by the fund’s Toronto affiliate (with sponsorship of a Toronto-based benefactor), within the framework of 2011 projects implemented through sponsor-specified grants.

The renovated premises, encompassing a total area of 1,120 square meters, include eight patient rooms, a cafeteria, two offices, and all restrooms. In addition, the power and water systems have been replaced and a central-heating system was installed. Both upgraded departments have been fully operational since mid-December.

Dr. Razmik Pandunts, who heads the Nephrology and Dialysis departments, had high praise for the quality of the upgrades as he conveyed his gratitude to the Hayastan All-Armenian Fund. “Without a doubt, our staff has been delighted to work in such beautifully renovated facilities,” Dr. Pandunts said. “This new environment is also having a visibly positive effect on our patients.”

The Nephrology and Dialysis departments employ a staff of 36, including six doctors and 30 nurses. Today some 55 patients receive treatment at the two wings, which together have the capacity to serve up to 80 patients at a time.

The Hayastan All-Armenian Fund is currently carrying out two other projects sponsored by its Toronto affiliate: the complete renovation of the third and fourth floors of the Nork Retirement Home, in Yerevan; and the refurbishment of the Education and Cultural Centre of Shushi, Artsakh.

Commenting on the completion of the St. Gregory Hospital project and other initiatives sponsored by the Toronto affiliate, Mkrtich Mkrtichian, its chairman, said, “We are extremely gratified by the fact that the Armenian community of Toronto is doing its utmost to be of assistance to our sisters and brothers in the homeland.”