ACT for Children – Partners’ Meeting in Armenia
CCI was pleased to join partners of the ACT for Children initiative on 18 March, 2026 alongside clinicians, hospital leadership, and patient advocates, at the Yeolyan Hematology and Oncology Center in Armenia. The meeting was hosted at the hospital with the support of City of Smiles, CCI’s member organisation in the country.
Within the ACT for Children initiative, partners work together to improve treatment outcomes for children living with cancer in several focus countries, including Armenia. This refers to expanding access to treatment while strengthening comprehensive patient support, including psychosocial care. In Armenia, CCI works closely with City of Smiles on nutrition services that provide patients with four balanced, freshly prepared, high-quality meals each day, alongside training for nutritionist.
ACT for Children partner representatives in Yeolyan Hematology and Oncology Center, Armenia
The meeting in Armenia was a testament of the impact generated by the patient support organisations. Since the foundation of City of Smile in 2018, the organisation has made a remarkable impact at the Yeolyan Center, contributing to improved treatment outcomes and increasing survival rates. Beyond ensuring high-quality medical care, City of Smiles is deeply committed to holistic patient support - offering educational and psychological sessions, nutrition services, and much more.
We would also like to recognise the dedication and leadership of Ester Demirtshyan, Executive Director of City of Smiles Foundation, and Emma Tadevosyan, Medical Affairs Coordinator, whose vision and commitment continue to drive meaningful change.
On a more personal note,
we were deeply touched by the atmosphere created within the oncology ward. One particularly moving symbol stands in the corridor: a living tree, decorated with hand-cut, colourful hearts bearing the photos of children and young adult survivors. It is a powerful reminder of the lives at the heart of this work, and of the hope that drives it forward.
About ACT for Children
ACT for Children is a public-private initiative that brings together pharmaceutical companies, international organisations, clinicians, and patient advocates. The initiative aims to expand access to innovative cancer medicines while supporting the development of sustainable paediatric oncology care systems. Childhood Cancer International is a partner within this initiative, with an active role in bridging the patient centred care with access to innovative medicine.
