A Special Re-Release: Case #17: Every Cure Pt.1 (Dr. David Fajgenbaum)

A Special Re-Release: Case #17: Every Cure Pt.1 (Dr. David Fajgenbaum)

From Symptomatic: A Medical Mystery Podcast by iHeartPodcasts

September 9, 2025 · 42 min

About this episode

The episode revisits the impactful story of Dr. David Fajgenbaum, highlighting his journey from illness to advocacy and innovation in medicine.

We’re celebrating Dr. David Fajgenbaum and revisiting one of our most impactful stories. David was just named to the TIME100 Health list and has a powerful new TED Talk —milestones that reflect the empathy, curiosity, and determination at the heart of his work. Once a college quarterback and competitive weightlifter, David became critically ill at 25. When standard treatments failed to keep him out of the ICU, he and his friend Grant raced to save his life by repurposing existing drugs and laying the foundation for Every Cure . His journey shows what’s possible when we ask tough questions, share our experiences, and refuse to give up. We hope this re-release reminds each of us that we can make a difference—in our own lives and in the lives of others. We’ll see you very soon for a brand-new season of Symptomatic. Until then, take care and be well. * * * * * * ****** SPOILER ALERT BELOW ****** If you’re looking for information on Castleman disease or want to learn more about the work of Grant, David, and the Every Cure team, visit EveryCure.org See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People in this episode

Guest: Dr. David Fajgenbaum

Topics covered

  • medical mystery
  • health journey
  • drug repurposing
  • Castleman disease
  • personal story
  • TED Talk

Keywords

  • David Fajgenbaum
  • Castleman disease
  • Every Cure
  • TED Talk
  • medical innovation
  • healthcare
  • drug repurposing

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: TIME100, Every Cure, EveryCure.org

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