Margarita Hasratyan, a 45-year-old pediatrician, has spent her life caring for children with warmth, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to their well-being. Before being forced to leave Stepanakert in September 2023, Margarita worked at the Arevik Medical Center, where her dedication left a lasting impact on countless young lives.
"I always dreamed of being a pediatrician," Margarita shares, her voice gentle but resolute. "Children are such friendly and generous souls. Helping them brings me a joy that words can’t describe."
Margarita continues her work at the AGBU Claudia Nazarian Polyclinic in Yerevan, where she provides care to displaced families from Artsakh and Syria. This journey began after she completed FAR’s Continuing Medical Education (CME) Program, which included a four-week training at Arabkir Medical Center. The program equipped her with the credentials to advance her practice and expand her impact.
"If it weren’t for FAR, I wouldn’t be working right now," she admits. "After we were displaced, my family was living in a rented house, barely making ends meet. My husband and I had no income, and we had two children to support. FAR’s support came at a time when we desperately needed it. Without them, I truly don’t know where we’d be."
This isn’t the first time Margarita turned to FAR for help. Back in 2018, while still in Artsakh, she participated in the CME program as well. "Retraining is essential for doctors," she explains. "Medicine evolves so quickly that staying updated is the only way to provide the best care for our patients."
These days, Margarita sees far fewer patients—just three or four a day compared to the 25 she once treated in Artsakh. But her devotion remains steadfast. At the Polyclinic, she not only provides medical care but also offers the emotional support displaced families so urgently need.
"This clinic is a lifeline for so many," Margarita says. "I understand what my patients are going through because I’ve lived it myself. This work isn’t just about treating illnesses; it’s about restoring hope and providing comfort in moments of profound loss. I am here for them, however they need me."
Many families from Artsakh continue to seek her care even now. Some travel from nearby regions just to see her. "No matter the hour, they know they can call me. They trust that I’ll always be there for them.”
To support more displaced doctors like Margarita, consider donating to FAR today.
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