Merak Melikian Hatounian

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Merak Melikian Hatounian

At the age of 20, Debra Melikian’s only child Merak was diagnosed with a rare hereditary form of cancer known as SDH-deficient Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (SDH-deficient GIST). Currently, there is no cure.

Merak refused to let cancer define him as he lived his life on his own terms with drive and fierce determination.  He learned how to fight cancer by watching his father, Keith bravely fight a related form of cancer. No matter how difficult cancer’s challenges got, Merak never complained. Merak continued to maintain his positive attitude and outlook and kept fighting, all the while inspiring and motivating others, near and far.  Sadly, in February 2020, Merak, at 25 years old, passed away with his loving mother at his side. We all agree that Merak touched so many lives. His memory will live on with everyone who knew and loved him.