Dr. Abdulrazak Alali at Emory University in Atlanta, where he completed his fellowship in biochemical genetics.
Much like Hugh Laurie in the TV drama “House,” Dr. Abdulrazak Alali plays medical detective when it comes to evaluating, testing, diagnosing and counseling children and families as Akron Children’s newest pediatric clinical and biochemical geneticist. He tackles health mysteries as would a medical Sherlock Holmes, searching for answers about causes or inheritance of birth defects, developmental differences and other conditions, such as cancer. It’s rewarding work because each time he closes a case, Dr. Alali can provide better care and enhanced quality of life to patients born with genetic conditions.
Which celebrity do you look the most like or which sitcom character do you act the most like?
Hugh Laurie from the TV medical drama, “House”
Why did you want to become a doctor?
I wanted to help people in need.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
New York City. It is home to me because it’s the place my daughter was born and where my 2 sons spent their early childhoods.
Dr. Abdulrazak with his children
If you could be a character in a movie, which movie would it be and why?
I would choose Mel Gibson in “The Patriot” because it represents the sacrifice for freedom.
If you were stranded on a deserted island, what 3 items would you bring with you and why?
I’d bring a cellphone to call my children, a cup for drinking water and a telescope to enjoy the night sky.
What did you want to be (profession) when you were little?
I wanted to be a geologist because I’m fond of time and the history of Earth.
What’s your favorite movie/ book /TV show/sports team?
Favorite movie: What about Bob?
Favorite book: “Wuthering Heights,” by Emily Brontë
Favorite TV show: Friends
My favorite sports team: the German soccer team
What’s your quote, mantra or personal slogan you live by?
“Be grateful for life and accept fate”
Do you have any hidden talents or something people may not know about you?
I write poetry. I’ve been writing it since I was 12 years old and continue to write it to this day, here and there.
What is your greatest achievement?
My greatest achievement is working here as a metabolic and clinical geneticist, despite all of the obstacles and odds I faced in my life. I specialize in the field of biochemical genetics. I’m committed to helping, supporting and treating patients affected with inborn error of metabolism, such as Phenylketonuria, organic acidemias and fatty acids oxidation disorders. Success requires determination and patience.
Dr. Alali (center) celebrates the end of his fellowship in biochemical genetics with his colleagues at Emory University, Atlanta.
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