The medical community across New York and beyond is mourning the profound loss of Dr. Renee Rolston, M.D., a distinguished urologist, urogynecologist, and compassionate advocate for patient care. Dr. Rolston passed away on March 6, 2026, at the age of 40. As an Assistant Professor in the Department of Urology at Weill Cornell Medicine, her career was defined by her pioneering work in complex pelvic reconstructive surgery, pelvic floor dysfunction, and gender-affirming care. Known for her technical excellence and deep empathy, Dr. Rolston leaves behind a legacy of healing, education, and advocacy.
Early Life & Education
Born on January 6, 1986, Renee Rolston exhibited an early and steadfast commitment to medicine and the betterment of human health. She pursued her medical training through the rigorous and accelerated 7-year B.S./M.D. program at the Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education at The City College of New York, earning her Bachelor of Science in 2009. She subsequently received her Medical Degree from New York Medical College in 2011.
Dr. Rolston’s postgraduate training laid the foundation for her multifaceted expertise. She completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Montefiore Medical Center–Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Driven to provide specialized care for complex conditions, she pursued rigorous fellowship training in Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery (formerly Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery) at the University of Southern California (USC). Later in her career, recognizing the critical need for specialized and compassionate care for the transgender community, she completed a second fellowship in Transgender Surgery and Medicine at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic.
Career Zenith & Contributions
Dr. Rolston’s professional tenure was marked by her dual-fellowship expertise, a rarity that allowed her to bridge the complex gaps between urology, gynecology, and reconstructive surgery. As an Assistant Professor in the Department of Urology at Weill Cornell Medicine, she provided world-class care to patients at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and NewYork-Presbyterian Queens Hospital.
Her clinical and research interests were vast and deeply impactful. Dr. Rolston specialized in treating pelvic floor dysfunction, uterine and vaginal prolapse, and urinary incontinence. She was highly regarded for her mastery of minimally invasive surgical techniques, including vaginal, perineal, laparoscopic, and robotic-assisted approaches.
Beyond traditional urogynecology, Dr. Rolston was a pioneering force in gender-affirming surgeries. Her specialized training enabled her to provide comprehensive, life-changing surgical care for transgender patients, addressing a critical gap in modern medicine. She was a tireless researcher, investigating the nuances of sexual dysfunction, painful bladder syndrome (interstitial cystitis), and the overarching impacts of pelvic pain on a patient’s quality of life. Her work consistently emphasized the importance of tailoring treatments to improve patient outcomes and alleviate chronic suffering.
Leadership & Affiliations
A respected voice in her field, Dr. Rolston was deeply embedded in the academic and professional medical communities. She was an active member of the American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS) and the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH).
Dr. Rolston’s authoritativeness was evident in her commitment to advancing medical knowledge. She frequently presented her research on painful bladder syndrome, sexual dysfunction, and transgender surgery at national medical conferences. At Weill Cornell Medicine, she was not only a clinician but a dedicated educator, mentoring the next generation of medical students, residents, and fellows. Her leadership extended to advocacy, where she worked diligently to reduce health disparities within the urologic, gynecologic, and transgender communities through community engagement and education.
Legacy & Impact
The sudden passing of Dr. Renee Rolston on March 6, 2026, leaves an irreplaceable void in the fields of urology and reconstructive pelvic surgery. She will be remembered not only for her surgical precision and academic contributions but for the profound dignity and respect with which she treated every patient.
Dr. Rolston dedicated her life to improving the quality of life for those suffering from chronic pain and functional disorders, as well as providing affirming, compassionate care to marginalized populations. Her legacy will endure through the countless lives she improved, the trainees she inspired, and the ongoing advancements in urogynecology and transgender health that she helped to champion. She remains a shining example of medical excellence, equity, and unwavering compassion.