The Checkup with Doctor Mike The Doctor Who Cured His Own Disease | Dr. David Fajgenbaum
Sep 7, 2025
Dr. David Fajgenbaum, a physician and Castleman's disease survivor, shares his remarkable journey from a Division One quarterback to a medical advocate. He discusses how personal tragedy, including his mother's battle with cancer, inspired his fight for medical innovation. David explains his groundbreaking work in drug repurposing, emphasizes the importance of the 'right to try' legislation, and highlights how AI could transform cancer treatments. His journey showcases resilience, hope, and the profound impact of patient-centered care.
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Uncle Saved By A Repurposed Immunotherapy
- David sequenced his uncle's angiosarcoma after initial doctors declined and found PD-L1 expression.
- Treating with pembrolizumab produced a durable remission now lasting nine years.
Go Get A Second Opinion
- Seek an expert second opinion and be encouraged to do so; your first doctor's bond is valuable but may limit options.
- Ask specialists about sequencing, off-label options, and alternative pathways when standard approaches are exhausted.
Favor Repurposed Drugs When Evidence Permits
- Prefer drug repurposing (off-label uses) over untested experimental agents when possible because safety profiles already exist.
- Use existing clinical evidence and real-world experience to inform risk–benefit conversations with clinicians.
