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Boy battling leukemia gets wish of becoming gemstone miner fulfilled

Young Armen says he was inspired by his grandfather, who is a geologist.

Matt Trapani

Mar 25, 2025, 5:59 PM

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A brave 8-year-old got the surprise of a lifetime during a lunch break in North Bergen.

During a stop at Jersey Mike’s Subs, young Armen’s wish to become a gemstone miner was fulfilled.

The Ridgewood native is battling leukemia. He says he was inspired by his grandfather, who is a geologist. Armen says his grandfather has been teaching him all about gems since he was old enough to speak.

“It's so meaningful to have a community that cares for the family and all the families that are going through the battle of a diagnosis and the battle of cancer,” says Arman Pehlivanian, Armen’s father.

Jersey Mike’s Subs raised more than $2.1 million for Make-A-Wish New Jersey since their partnership began. The sandwich company has helped to fund 250 wishes.

MORE: Jersey Mike's Subs is set to hold its annual Day of Giving on March 26

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