Our History
1979
Our vision began when one of Mongolia’s renowned heart surgeons Dr. Bundan launched the Bundan project in 1979.
The word bundan means heart in Mongolian. Could it be simple coincidence that Dr. Bundan, one of the foremost figures in the Mongolian medical field who has left an indisputable legacy as THE heart specialist in the history of Mongolian medicine is named as such?
Dr. Bundan has a son who is also a heart surgeon, his name is Boldsaikhan. Many Mongolians may know him from his active role in society - he has an extensive knowledge of literature, politics, art, but most know him as a highly skilled heart surgeon with talent comparable to his father.
1987
In 1987, a documentary was created, highlighting the life and work of Dr. Bundan. This film captured his groundbreaking contributions to heart surgery in Mongolia and preserved his legacy for future generations.
2020
The Heart Remembers project was launched in May 2020 in response to the disruption caused by COVID-19, which affected the travel plans of doctors from Japan and Korea, as well as those seeking treatment abroad. Additionally, the 3rd State Central Hospital had stopped performing pediatric heart surgeries since Dr. Boldsaikhan's departure in 2011.
Dr. Boldsaikhan recognized the need to address heart defects in children, particularly in underserved rural areas where existing services were limited. He initiated a solution that involved raising donations and organizing outreach missions to diagnose, transport, and provide surgeries to children in these remote regions.
The first outreach mission took place between July 6 and July 16, 2020, covering Khuvsgul province and its surrounding areas, including Murun city, Khatgal, Tumurbulag soums, and the Many-River delta region.
2023
In the four years spanning from September 2020 to December 2023, our efforts have led to remarkable achievements. During this period, we have performed life-saving surgeries on 1,087 children, and examined 30,050 children across various regions. To reach remote and underserved areas, we have traveled 75,068 kilometers, often overcoming significant logistical challenges.
Additionally, our mission has been supported by the generous contributions of 5,682 individual donors and 172 companies. Through their kindness and generosity, we have raised a total of $1,462,232, enabling us to continue our vital work and make a profound impact on the lives of many children.