Top Docs ’10 Profiles: David M. Aboulafia
By Elizabeth M. Economou December 31, 1969
David M. Aboulafia, M.D.
Specialty: Hematology, oncology and HIV
Practice: Virginia Mason Seattle Main Clinic
Hospital affiliation: Virginia Mason Medical Center
Medical degree: University of Michigan Medical School
What’s the main misconception about having AIDS?
That there are no good treatments, and that the medications are too toxic to take on a regular basis. With the benefits of highly active antiretroviral therapy, HIV/AIDS is no longer a death sentence. Most patients will live long and active lives.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of your specialty?
The one-on-one interaction with patients is still the most important part of my day. When it goes well, I feel enormous gratification. When it goes poorly, it spurs me to try to do better the next time.
Do you believe there will be a cure for AIDS in your lifetime?
Definitely!
Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
My father was, and continues to be, my biggest inspiration. He worked tirelessly as a vascular surgeon, was very approachable as a father, and continues to be curious about so many aspects of life, including politics, sports and the arts.
Originally published in July 2010
Follow Us
Restaurant Roundup: Halal Bagels and Mario Party
Here’s what was served up recently in the Emerald City.
OK, we’ll say it—we love Seattle Restaurant Week, but it also gives us a little bit of anxiety and a lot of FOMO. There are just so many choices. Hundreds of restaurants, food carts, cafes, and bars can be a tad overwhelming, but 10? That’s a much more manageable number. Thankfully, Secret Seattle put together…
Toll Talk: World Cup Could Bring Higher Tunnel Rates
Seattle may see temporary toll hikes on Highway 99 during next summer’s global event.
Driving through the Highway 99 tunnel in Seattle could be pricier during next summer’s FIFA World Cup. With traffic expected to surge when the city hosts several matches, the Washington State Transportation Commission may temporarily hike tolls for the two-mile tunnel to defray additional costs associated with the international sporting event. Earlier this week, commissioners…
Harvest Moon Rising
Seattle’s skyline will glow under October’s supermoon.
If your backyard seemed unusually lit last night, that was the near-full moon showing off, and tonight will be even better. This is October’s Harvest Moon, the one that lands closest to the fall equinox and, this year, doubles as a supermoon. According to NASA, it can appear up to 30% brighter and 14% larger…
Seattle’s WALK DONT RUN Festival is a Major Success for Downtown
Featuring more than 100 local artists, the 2-mile route drew thousands throughout the day.
Last week, Seattle’s streets were abuzz with creativity during the inaugural WALK DON’T RUN art marathon. Inspired by NEPO 5K—an art event organized by local artist Klara Glosova in Chinatown International District and Beacon Hill—WALK, DONT RUN wound through the heart of the city, with dozens of installations, performances, pop-ups, open galleries, and merriment along…