Meet Leila Darki, MD

Dr. Darki is a neurologist with Keck Medicine of USC specializing in neurophysiology and neuromuscular medicine. She treats patients at Keck Hospital of USC and USC Norris Cancer Hospital.

Here’s what you won’t find on her resume.

Becoming a doctor was her lifelong dream.

“I’ve always known I wanted to be a doctor. Even as a kid, whenever someone asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, I’d answer without hesitation: ‘a doctor.’ It was never a question for me. It just always felt right!”

She prioritizes family time and exercise.

“When I’m not working, you’ll most likely find me with my two athletic kids. I shuttle them to after-school activities, cheering them on at games and supporting them at competitions. I also enjoy playing tennis, attending Pilates classes and spending quality time chatting with my husband. Staying active and connected with my family is how I recharge.”

Sampling new foods is among her favorite hobbies.

“People are often surprised to learn how much of a foodie I am! I absolutely love cooking, but even more than that I enjoy exploring different cuisines and trying new foods. It’s something that truly excites and elevates me. It’s my way of experiencing the world, one bite at a time.”

Her motivation stems from her patients.

“I’m inspired every day by my patients’ strength and resilience and by the trust they put in me. Knowing I have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in a person’s life, whether through diagnosis, treatment or by simply listening, drives me to be the best physician I can. Medicine is constantly evolving and so am I, always striving to learn and grow to provide the highest level of care.”

She emphasizes leading with curiosity.

“Neuromuscular medicine is a rewarding and rapidly evolving field. Stay curious, compassionate and open to new and innovative advances. Building strong relationships with patients and truly listening will make a real difference in their care.”

Gene therapy has been a game-changer in neurology.

“One of the most impactful advancements in the neuromuscular field has been the development of new medications and gene therapies. Conditions that were once considered untreatable now have effective therapy options thanks to cutting-edge research.”

She envisions a future without ALS.

“In my lifetime, I dream of seeing an effective therapy, and ultimately a cure, for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. ALS is a devastating neurodegenerative disease that currently has limited treatment options and no cure. I’ve witnessed firsthand the resilience of patients battling the disease, and I hope to see the day where a cure becomes reality.”

What makes Keck Medicine stand out?

“What truly sets patient care at Keck Medicine apart is our commitment to a patient-centered approach. In my specialty, we don’t just focus on the diagnosis. We take the time to listen and get to know our patients on a deeper level, and we prioritize each individual’s unique experiences, goals and concerns.”

Topics