Spec. MD. Sefika Akyol

A refugee family from Syria brought their 6-year-old with hepatic hydatid disease, a condition Dr. Akyol recognized from her research in endemic regions. She performed a novel laparoscopic approach avoiding open surgery, coordinated with social services for post-operative care, and provided treatment in their native Kurdish through a translator she personally vetted.

Our 3-day-old newborn, Leo, developed severe jaundice and wasn't feeding. Dr. Akyol identified a rare biliary atresia variant through specialized imaging she personally performed at midnight. Her emergency Kasai procedure saved his liver function, and her weekly video consultations during our rural isolation made us feel supported through the most terrifying first months of parenthood.

As a teenage competitive swimmer, I struggled with unexplained weight loss and abdominal pain that derailed my training. Dr. Akyol discovered eosinophilic esophagitis triggered by chlorine exposure, something no other specialist considered. Her customized treatment plan included swallow therapy and environmental modifications that let me return to nationals within six months.

Our 8-year-old daughter, visiting from Germany, developed acute liver failure while on vacation. Dr. Akyol coordinated an international medical transfer, consulted with our home hospital in real-time, and performed a life-saving plasma exchange. Her ability to navigate language barriers and medical systems across borders was nothing short of miraculous.

Our premature twin boys developed necrotizing enterocolitis simultaneously. Dr. Akyol managed their divergent courses, one requiring surgery, the other medical management, with perfect synchronization. Her 3 AM bedside ultrasounds and daily family conferences gave us clarity during the 47-day NICU stay that saved both their lives.