Dr. Renee Rolston-Mensah

Grief never ends… but it changes. It's a passage, not a place to stay. Grief is not a sign of weakness, nor a lack of faith… it is the price of love.

In Memory of Dr. Renee Rolston-Mensah

My wife, Renee, did many extraordinary things—but above all, she was someone who went above and beyond for the people she loved.
If she could choose how to be remembered, I believe she would want to be known first as a loving mother. A mother who would endure anything for her children. To say her first pregnancy was difficult would be an understatement, yet her love was stronger than any pain. She never wanted Leo to be alone, and somehow, with a strength that still amazes me, she chose to go through that journey again just six months later. Because of her courage and selflessness, we have our two beautiful children, Leo and Lyla—her greatest gifts to this world.
Renee’s love extended far beyond our home. She showed up for her family in ways that were quiet, constant, and life-changing. She didn’t just care—she acted. She paid attention. She made a difference.
She may also want to be remembered as a remarkable physician. Renee was the kind of doctor who went above and beyond for her patients, but also for the residents and fellows she trained. She gave her time, her knowledge, and her heart to medicine, and in doing so, she left a lasting impact on countless lives—many of whom she may never even have known.
And then there was the Renee I was lucky enough to explore the world with—my partner in adventure. Together, we traveled across East Asia, stood in awe of Europe’s architecture, searched for cenotes in Mexico, and experienced the beauty of safaris and rainforests in Sub-Saharan Africa. She brought curiosity, joy, and wonder into every journey we took.
Renee was all of these things—but what tied them all together was this: for the things that mattered most to her, she always went above and beyond.

When I first met Renee, the odds didn’t exactly seem in our favor. It was the middle of COVID, and a small misunderstanding—what we later
jokingly called “tomato-gate”—almost derailed everything before it began. But from the very first day, I knew she was my person. And from that moment on, we never looked back.
My life became better in every possible way because of her—more than I ever thought possible. My family, my friends, and anyone who had the privilege of meeting Renee knew just how special she was. She had a way of leaving a mark on people that could never be erased.
I always believed we would grow old together. I thought I would be the one to leave this world first. But it seems God had other plans.
As painful as this loss is, I find strength in my faith. God gives, and God takes. This world is only a transitional place, and I have come to see that Renee’s time here—her presence, her love, even her physical body—was a gift that I was blessed to experience.
And I hold onto the belief that this is not the end. That one day, we will meet again.
Until then, I will carry her with me—in our children, in our memories, and in everything she taught me about love, strength, and what it truly means to go above and beyond.

Rest In Peace, My Love,
Pascal Mensah 

Gallery

Memory wall

April 16, 2026

Dear Pascal Mensah and Family,

We are deeply sorry for your loss. Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.

Renee was a truly remarkable person—radiant, kind, and full of warmth. During our time together in residency, she brought light and positivity into every room. So many of us carry cherished memories of the time we shared with her; she had a unique way of making everyone feel seen and valued, and her presence will be profoundly missed.

Our residency class has come together to make a donation in her memory for your children. It is a small gesture, but one that comes from a place of deep respect, admiration, and love for her and your family.

We hope you find comfort in knowing how deeply she impacted those around her and how fondly she will always be remembered.

With heartfelt sympathy,

Einstein Class of 2013

Diana Glasser
Esther Koai Brennan
David Kulak
Rene Luna
Maria Renee Milcetic
Nina Mizrahi
Yvy Rivera-Chiauzzi
Sara Schonfeld
Kim Thornton
Josh Younger
Anat Zelmanovich

Einstein Class of 2013

April 12, 2026

While our beloved Dr. Renee Rolston was already laid to Rest and she was on her onward Heavenly Journey, (not knowing), I called her office for my follow-up appointment on April 8, 2026, only to know that she had passed away on March 4, 2026. On hearing this devastating news, my heart broke into a million pieces. I cried cried and prayed that whole day- thinking of all my interactions with her from Feb. 2025 to Sept. 2025. I underwent my surgery with her in July 2025, on her return from her 2nd Pregnancy Leave and if I am not mistaken, I think mine was her first surgery on her return. And I can’t believe that she performed my surgery which took about 6/7 hrs., so meticulously and with the utmost care love and precision which allowed me to recover completely and return to perfect state of health. Praise God.
Dr. Renee Rolston, was blessed with magical hands, eyes, mind and smile- as such that no task was impossible to her. On my very first consultation with Dr. Rolston, I felt she was an Angel from Heaven with a radiant smile and warm charming nature that brightened any space she entered. Before my surgery, she explained each step of my procedure and even incorporated preventive measures to cancer, in future. My heart breaks thinking of how she took such wonderful care of me and then left us all so suddenly, so young, to God’s call. May be God needed her even more than we needed her here on earth.
Sending my love hugs prayers and comfort to her Husband Pascal, Little Leo, Baby Lyla, Family & Friends. Though we have not met, I feel connected to you all through Dr. Rolston.
May Dr. Rolston’s beautiful cherished memories be your strength, comfort and guiding force, today, tomorrow and always, until we all meet her again.
Eternal Rest give unto the soul of Dr. Renee Rolson, Oh Lord - and let Perpetual light shine upon her and may her soul rest in peace, eternal. AMEN
This picture was clicked with Dr. Reene Rolston, after my surgery follow-up visit to her office on August 26, 2025 – Annie Rodrigues – April 12, 2026

Annie Rodrigues

April 9, 2026

I was a patient of Dr Rolston, she was one of the kindest doctors I’ve ever had. She made me feel so safe and listened to, learning of her passing was heartbreaking. Her family have been in my thoughts and prayers ever since.

Thank you for everything you did for me, Dr Rolston. May God rest your soul.

Danny D

April 8, 2026

May you rest in peace, dear Renee. Sending our prayers and blessings to your husband and beautiful children as they will hold you in their hearts forever.

Ana

March 30, 2026

Splendour In
The Grass
WILLIAM WORDSWORTH What though the radiance
which was once so bright Be now for ever taken from my sight, Though nothing can bring back the hour Of splendour in the grass, of glory in the flower, We will grieve not, rather find
Strength in what remains behind;
In the primal sympathy
Which having been must ever be; In the soothing thoughts that spring
Out of human suffering; In the faith that looks through death,
In years that bring the philosophic mind.

Rest in peace my lovely niece.

Fidelia Dottin

March 28, 2026

This is truly a heartbreaking loss. Renee was such a kind and gentle soul, and her smile had a way of brightening any room she entered. My prayers are with her entire family during this incredibly difficult time. There are no words that can fully ease the pain her husband and children are experiencing, but I pray that God draws near to them, surrounds them with His comfort, and carries them through each day ahead. We hold on to the hope of that promised day when there will be no more death—when the former things have passed away and all things are made new. RIP Renee 🕊️❤️

Timothy Julien

March 27, 2026

Dear Fenny. I’m so sorry for your loss.. My thoughts are with you and your family.Renee was a beloved and wonderful person. Sending you love and strength during this difficult time. Peace and comfort. Merle Wiseman.

Merle Wiseman

March 27, 2026

Renee,

You were one of those people who made life feel fuller just by being part of it. Your kindness was effortless, your humor infectious, and your willingness to show up for others, without hesitation, without condition, was something truly rare.

As a mother, a wife, daughter, sister, and friend, you gave everything. You loved deeply and you lived generously, and everyone who crossed your path felt it.

What stays with us is not just what we shared, but all the things we never got the chance to do — the conversations, the BedStuy block parties, brownstone dinner parties, the laughs, the moments still waiting. That's the quiet ache of losing someone too soon.

You are deeply missed, Renee. And you always will be.

With love,
M&P

M & P

March 27, 2026

A beautiful soul, gone too soon.
Your impact will never be forgotten.
Praying for peace and comfort for your family.

Tirsit

March 27, 2026

Dr. Renee Rolston-Mensah

A phenomenal woman
A dedicated wife
A super mom
A crucial family member
A terrific sister
A cutting-edge medical physician
A great friend
An exceptional human being gone too soon.

It is hard accepting that she is no longer amongst us. Is she really gone? Absolutely not from our hearts. She will forever linger on.
Just the thoughts of her laughter, her contagious smile, her attentiveness to others needs, the special way she draws you into a conversation, and her overall positive enthusiasm will always make a not-so-good day feel superbly better.

Love Renee always and forever...

A KTori

March 25, 2026

Renee was someone very special, and I feel grateful to have had the chance to work with her. She had such a gentle heart, a caring spirit, and a way of making people feel comforted and seen. Her loss is heartbreaking, and her memory will stay with us always.

Alina Hatchett

March 24, 2026

I met Renee years ago through our husbands and all I could think is...WOW, Pascal better marry her! We immediately hit it off. She was beautiful and intelligent with a great sense of humor and a smile that warmed you when you saw it. When I met her family I understood where that warmth came from.

We got to know each other over the years and spent time together during various family gatherings. I was so happy when they welcomed little Leo and then Lyla. We always had mommy talk...chatting about all the things she wanted for her little ones and joking about the woes of motherhood that were also a blessing to experience. I told her she would be an inspiration to her little ones especially little Lyla. For her young daughter graced with melanin to have a highly educated and outspoken yet down-to-earth mother who exemplified black beauty is something to truly admire.

There arent enough words to describe all the ways she has touched our hearts. Not only mine and my husband's but our boys' and our extended families who all knew and enjoyed spending time with her. She was taken too soon. We didnt get to see all that you would do in this life but the things you did accomplish have left a resounding mark on the countless lives of all who knew you. May God bless your soul and welcome you into His loving embrace. Rest easy Renee...you are deeply loved and missed forever

Shaureena Bobcombe-Ahmad

March 23, 2026

Renee was an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community at Weill Cornell and I had the honor of working with her and learning from her during her time there. She is irreplaceable and we are lesser in her absence.

She loved her children immensely and I am deeply saddened for their loss.

Nelson Sanchez

March 18, 2026

I had the good fortune to know Renee when she was a resident at Montefiore and the doubly good fortune to work with her again at Weill Cornell. Just last summer she and I reconnected as she was helping me put together guidelines for one of our patient populations. It was a joy to see how she had grown her career from residency to becoming an expert in her field. She will be incredibly missed by her colleagues and patients at WCM. I hope that her memory will bring joy to all who knew her.

Colleen Lee

March 16, 2026

I remain in disbelief and deeply saddened by the loss of such a remarkable and beautiful person, and she is also such compassionate physician. My heartfelt condolences go out to her young family during this profoundly difficult time. I wish them strength, comfort, and the support of all who care for them. She will be dearly missed.

Nuan Cui

March 16, 2026

I have known Dr Renee since she graduated college going to medical school,basically she and her sister,I always admired the relationship between those 2,for those who know me knows,I am the hairstylist of the family.I am lost for words because I believe our last conversation was on Saturday while getting her hair done before leaving we hug so tight like she knew it was our last and of course I made her laugh by telling (SHAKE WHAT YOUR MOMMA GIVE YA)while tears was coming she busted laughing and that is my memory and will forever relive it,OMG I still don't accept the fact she is not going to come back,but we all know heaven going to have a blast with presence. Fly high Queen.

Marie leonvil

March 15, 2026

It still feels unbelievable that she is no longer with us. The care she showed others went far beyond medicine, she made people feel seen, heard, and valued. That kind of spirit is rare, and leaves a lasting mark. She was more than just a provider, she was truly an inspiration.

Libby S

March 15, 2026

Dr. Rolston had a way of seeing people. Really seeing them. Not just the surface, but who they actually were. That was her gift. That's how it was with us from the very beginning. She saw me, and I felt it.

When I asked her for a letter of recommendation, she stopped everything she was doing, stayed late to finish it, printed it herself, put it in an envelope, wrote my name on it, and left it with someone she trusted to make sure I would get it the next day. I didn't ask for any of that. She just did it.

When I opened that envelope, I realized it wasn't just a letter. It was a gift. Something she put her own hands on, her own time into, her own heart into.

Today that letter hangs framed on my wall. At the bottom, next to her actual signature, I placed a small picture of her, that beautiful unforgettable smile. Now when I look at it, I see her face beside her name, beside her words about me.

If she did that for me, I can only imagine the love she gave to those closest to her.

To her family, everyone who loved her, I am so sorry for your loss and so grateful someone like her existed. She lived with her whole heart.

I will carry her kindness with me always.

Marlene

March 15, 2026

I met Dr Renée Mensah in Paris during a short family visit. My dear sister in-law you have been a blessings to my cousin Pascal and our entire family. Your smile and joy of seeing me will also be cherished. Repos en paix et sincères condoléances

Benedicta Appiagyei

March 13, 2026

Renee was a sweet and kind person. She was so open and willing to share about her experiences at Sophie Davis, where we met. She felt like a big sister looking out for me and I would always be grateful. What a loss of a beautiful person, both inside and out. Sending so much love to her family, friends and loved ones 🤍

Fayola

March 12, 2026

My life would not be the same without Renee in it. Her memory will live on because I will continue to talk about her with my friends and with my kids and I will let them know how important she was as a physician and as a dear, dear friend.

May her memory be a blessing.

Jessica

March 12, 2026

I’m so deeply sorry for the loss of your precious daughter. There are no words that can ease the pain you’re carrying, but I want you to know you’re not walking through this alone. I’m holding you in my heart, and I’m here for you in whatever way you need — to listen, to sit in silence, or simply to be present. Her light and love will always be part of you, and of everyone who was lucky enough to know her.
Sincerely,
Immacula

Immacula

March 12, 2026

I was deeply saddened to hear about her passing. I had the privilege to work with Dr. Rolston for the past year, and she wasn't just a wonderful doctor to her patients, but an incredible person who touched so many hearts. I am grateful I got to work alongside her. Sending her family and friends love, strength, and support during this difficult time. 

Christina

March 12, 2026

Dr.Rolston was an amazing doctor, colleague, and role model for all. Her passing has left such a hole in my heart. I just want to thank her for always pushing me to be the best version of myself as well as convincing me to stay at NYP. She was such an inspiration to all, from the way she took care of her patients, to her beautiful looks and overall charming personality. I am grateful to have known and worked with her. I send my deepest condolences to her husband, children, family members, friends and anyone that was fortunate enough to be graced by her presence. You will be missed Dr.Rolston.

Christiyana Urrego

March 11, 2026

Please pardon me for using her previous name ( as I’ve called her Dr. Rolston for awhile ) and to reference her properly as Dr. Rolston Mensah!

Edward Snow

March 11, 2026

I have just learned of Dr. Rolston’s passing.
I have worked with her as a surgical tech a few times, even during her last pregnancy and I was happy when she returned to work in the operating room. We talked about the children and joked about my 30+ year old children. I have been away from work tending to family matters and was told by friends of her passing. Rest In Peace Dr. Rolston & I’ll miss your politeness, charm, respectfulness, decency, love, and reflection on family.

Edward Snow

March 11, 2026

My heart is beyond broken pieces for my girl and the family.

But to keep it light, I can share that
Renee became like a younger sister to me, and I doted on her tenacity, humility, loving heart, sense of humor, and style.

Renee and I always joked about how she was MIA for celebrations because of her dedication to finishing her studies, residency, and fellowship.

And Renee made sure to catch up! And I can say we were fortunate to share time during the most intimate celebrations. It also warmed my heart to see how Renee was loved and how she loved in return.

While the void for her presence can never be filled, in due time, I will be able to look back at the precious moments captured in time.

With immeasurable fondness and sorrow.

Andrea

Andrea Yarde

March 11, 2026

I am heartbroken. Renee’s lost is immeasurable. I will keep her and her young family in my thoughts and prayers.

Ladin Yurteri-Kaplan

March 11, 2026

I am so sorry to hear of Renee's passing. She was such a beautiful person inside and out and we thought she was wonderful.

Amy Park

March 11, 2026

I am so deeply sorry for your loss amigo mío . Renee was truly an incredible person. From the moment she became part of our friends group, she fit in so naturally and brought so much warmth, laughter, and kindness with her. She had such a beautiful spirit, and it was impossible not to love being around her.

I will always cherish the memories we shared, the fun times, the trips, the laughter, and all the moments that made our times with her so special. She made those memories even brighter just by being part of them.

Please know that she will always be remembered with so much love, and that we are all here for you and the kids during this incredibly difficult time. Sending you strength, love, and heartfelt condolences. 🤍

I love this pic of you wedding day, I was not there because I was giving birth to Eva that very same day! I will never forget your wedding day ❤️

Caro

March 11, 2026

I remember Rene like it was yesterday — the way she spoke, the way she would lean forward when she talked. She was a caring and kind physician, and I'm sorry I didn't get to know her better.
Looking at her pictures now, I feel a hole in my heart.
I cannot begin to imagine what her family is going through, and I wish them all the kindness and comfort this world has to offer.

Dmitry Fridman

March 10, 2026

Sorry for your loss my condolences to you and your family

juan lopez

March 10, 2026

I’m deeply saddened to hear of the loss of such a beautiful soul. I had the honor and privilege of attending junior high and high school with Renee. She was funny, caring, and had a smile that could light up any room she entered. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family during this difficult time. She will truly be missed.

Ashley McCall

March 10, 2026

So sorry for this loss. Her presence at the 8am Mass on Sundays with her beautiful two babies and family was a blessing and is already being surely missed. May her gentle soul rest in peace, Amen.

michael mekako

March 10, 2026

Deeply saddening, She was truly a wonderful doctor whose compassion, dedication, and kindness touched my heart and the lives of so many. Her care went far beyond medicine - she treated people with genuine warmth and humanity , and that is something that I will always take with me and will never be forgotten. Her commitment to helping others and the comfort she brought to those in her care is a legacy that will live on,. Sending my heartfelt condolences to her family , friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. You will be very missed by elite Urology team. Her family are in my prayers. Grateful to have known you but never forgotten. - MA

Megan

March 10, 2026

My sympathy is heartfelt. I will continue to pray God's comfort and strength for the loved ones for the days ahead. Blessings

Deidre Baptiste

March 9, 2026

I had the honor of training with Renee but at different programs in Los Angeles during fellowship. Because of that, I got to see her more socially, and I’m so thankful for her in that time of my life. I cherish these friendships, even though we eventually came to see each other about once a year at a conference, and less with time. But these are the kind of friends where you just need an afternoon or night together and you pick up where you left off. My heart goes out to her family and her kiddos. As a mom myself I can’t imagine…Renee was hilarious. So stylish and put together. A loyal friend. I’m sharing one of my fav memories of her from Bey-chela. I’m grateful to have known her. Her family is in my prayers.

Aldene Zeno

March 9, 2026

Renee and I were on what is arguably the most difficult rotation of residency together, GYN ONC. She was my intern and I was her senior, though in actuality we were a team. I remember this moment we took to snap a selfie. We were on that floor everyday by 5am seeing our beloved patients together. The smiles are of relief and satisfaction from completing our morning rounds on time before presenting to our Attendings. I dreaded that rotation, worried about the complexity of the patients and the long hours, but with Renee the rotation came and went with ease. She loved her patients and with her light and beauty she brought smiles to the sickest patients. Joy was natural and effortless for her. She was not afraid of hard work or complex patients. She exuded a gentle gorgeous and humble confidence. May her memory be for a blessing.

Anat Zelmanovich

Service