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David Fajgenbaum on drug repurposing, AI, and saving his own life

Oct 8, 2025
David Fajgenbaum, a physician-scientist and rare-disease advocate, shares his inspiring journey from receiving last rites to founding EveryCure. He discusses life-saving drug repurposing, including a treatment he found for his own Castleman disease. Delving into the integration of AI in healthcare, David explores how it can accelerate diagnoses and treatments while addressing ethical concerns. With tales of resilience and innovation, he highlights the potential for faster medical discoveries and a future where existing drugs can treat a multitude of conditions.
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ANECDOTE

Near‑Death Turned Research Breakthrough

  • David nearly died multiple times during a six-month ICU stay and used stored blood samples to study his relapse.
  • He discovered mTOR hyperactivation and tested sirolimus on himself, which put him into long-term remission.
ADVICE

Use Vision, Support, And One‑Step Focus

  • When facing extreme illness, visualize a hopeful future and lean on close support to endure.
  • Focus on the next small step (one breath at a time) rather than the entire ordeal.
INSIGHT

Repurposing Compresses Time And Risk

  • Developing a new drug typically takes 10–20 years and most candidates fail before approval.
  • Repurposing existing approved drugs bypasses early toxicology and can reach patients far faster and cheaper.
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