Members of the University of Kansas Department of Neurology gathered in-person and online on Friday, March 28 as Yasmin Khakoo, M.D., FAAN, FCNS, FAAP, delivered the seventh Lillian Pardo, M.D. Pediatric Neurology Lecture. 

Khakoo, a board-certified pediatric neurologist and neuro-oncologist, discussed what led to her career in these disciplines and the diagnosis and treatment of Neurocutaneous melanocytosis, a rare congenital syndrome that can lead to neurological conditions such as cancer. 

Prior to delivering her lecture in Clendening Auditorium, Khakoo was introduced by Department Chair Gary Gronseth, M.D. Afterward, Khakoo was presented with a commemorative plaque by Pardo, professor emerita in pediatrics and neurology at KU Medical Center, who established the annual lectureship alongside her husband, Manuel P. Pardo, M.D.

The lectureship’s mission of inspiring students, residents and young faculty in the early days of their medical education and academic medical center careers, is one that holds similar importance to Khakoo. 

“I don’t want to be that person who doesn't hold the ladder for someone else the way someone held it for me,” Khakoo said. “I always tease myself and say, ‘I don't hold the ladder. I'll bring it into the room.’”