The “Way of Life” Charitable Foundation is the only organization in Armenia that focuses specifically on the health challenges of children with epilepsy and other complex neurological disorders. We provide support for medication, essential diagnostic tests (MRI, EEG, PET-CT), genetic analyses, and surgeries.

Unfortunately, the number of children diagnosed with epilepsy in our country is very high. At the “Arabkir” Medical Center, up to 5,000 children are currently registered, and most of them live in disadvantaged conditions and lack access to the necessary financial and psychological support.

Treatment and diagnostic procedures are expensive, and that has become impossible for many families. Around 60–65% of our beneficiaries are children of single mothers, many of whom can’t work because they are fully devoted to taking care of their children.

Our mission is to provide each child, as needed, with access to modern medical services, including diagnostic evaluations and effective treatment. Epilepsy is treatable. With the help of modern medications, it can be controlled—and in some cases, children can become seizure-free.

The idea for the foundation was born out of the personal story of Elena Baghdasaryan, whose son battled epilepsy and fully recovered. Having gone through a long and difficult journey, she decided to share her experience and knowledge with other parents so that they, too, could feel supported and confident when facing their child’s illness. For years, she volunteered, studied medical literature on epilepsy, developed programs, gained experience, and finally found the courage to bring this initiative to life.

She overcame that challenge with the help of Biana Gagikovna Sukhudyan, Head of the Department of Neurology and Epileptology at “Arabkir” Medical Center and co-founder of the “Way of Life” Foundation.

What began as a volunteer initiative was officially registered as the “Way of Life” Foundation in 2018.

The field of pediatric neurology and our foundation receive partial, but still insufficient, support from the Armenian Government, while the number of children in need continues to grow. Because the number of sponsors is limited, we regularly organize fundraising campaigns, charity events, auctions, concerts, and exhibitions — both to raise funds and to draw public attention to this important issue.

The foundation is named “Way of Life” because the journey children with epilepsy and their families go through is long and challenging.

A way of life—fragile and difficult, yet a path toward life. These children are strong and resilient, and our goal is to help them live full and happy lives—just like their peers.

Today in Armenia, up to 5,000 registered children are battling epilepsy. Up to 70% can achieve seizure control and live fulfilling lives if they receive timely treatment and proper diagnostics.

One of our highest priorities is to raise awareness and spread accurate information about epilepsy, combating the long-standing stigma and misconceptions that exist in society.
Yes, the responsibility is high—and at times, even frightening—but it also gives us strength and hope.

With hope, faith, and love, we move forward, guided by our motto:
“Epilepsy — out of the shadows.”