Stanford University

News Service


NEWS RELEASE

7/2/01

John Sanford, News Service (650) 736-2151; e-mail: jsanford@stanford.edu

Batykyan, a 'selfless' student, dies after battle with cancer

Artyom Valeryevich Batykyan, the sophomore who friends say flourished at Stanford despite his long battle against a rare form of bone cancer, died the week before last of causes related to the disease. He was 21.

A memorial service is scheduled for 3 p.m. Thursday, July 5, at Memorial Church.

Batykyan's body was discovered in his campus dorm room in the early morning hours of Saturday, June 23.

A native of Uzbekistan, Batykyan, known as Art, had been working toward a bachelor's degree in international relations with a minor in music.

"He was definitely someone who seized every moment and lived every day to the fullest," said Iris Rave, Camp Kesem Project coordinator for the Hillel Foundation at Stanford. "He just really appreciated life."

Jewish students at Stanford initiated the Camp Kesem Project in the spring of 2000. The project serves children who have had a parent killed by cancer, or who have a parent being treated for cancer or whose cancer is in remission. Batykyan served on the project's administration committee.

Others echoed Rave's description of the sophomore, calling him an "inspiration" and "selfless."

"He refused to let anyone pity him," said Beth Youngdoff, Music Department publicist.

The cancer cost Batykyan his left arm. Nevertheless, he performed in a concerto competition and concerts during the spring quarter.

"He certainly didn't let any obstacles get in his way," Rave said.

Batykyan is survived by his father, Valery; mother, Alfia; and a sister, Kristina, 11.

Gifts to help the family defray medical and funeral expenses may be sent to the Batykyan Medical Fund, Wells Fargo Bank, 505 California Ave., Palo Alto, CA 94304 (the account number is 2011609815); or sent to the attention of James Cadena, Office of Residential Education, 306 Old Union, Stanford, CA 94305 (cards also may be sent to this address). Checks should be made out to the "Batykyan Medical Fund."

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By John Sanford

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