Dr. Noy Kaufman Weiss has packed a lot into her 33 years. She grew up in Israel and became president of Chabad Lubavitch at American University. As she pursued her MD at UCLA, she was a researcher at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.
In 2023, Dr. Weiss moved to Denver for her surgical residency at the UC Anschutz Cancer Center, and is now a respected physician in the field of breast surgery.
When did you decide to get into medicine?
I’ve always been drawn to science and understanding how things work, but what ultimately drew me to medicine was watching my dad, who a dentist, interact with his patients and seeing the impact he had on their lives through his compassion and care.
What satisfaction do you get to be in such a noble profession?
The greatest satisfaction comes from knowing that what we do truly matters to someone. As physicians, we have the privilege of caring for people during some of the most vulnerable and uncertain moments of their lives.
I often remind myself that what may feel like a routine day in the operating room for us could be one of the most significant days in a patient’s life — a day filled with anticipation, anxiety and hope. We have the opportunity to offer reassurance, compassion and comfort when people need it most.
What steered you to breast surgery and research?
The opportunity to work closely with women and support them through some of the most challenging moments of their lives. A breast cancer diagnosis affects so much more than a person’s physical health — it can touch their sense of identity, relationships, family and hopes for the future.
I’m especially passionate about caring for young women with breast cancer, particularly those diagnosed during pregnancy or in the years after childbirth. As a woman and now a mother, I feel a deep connection to these patients. Many are building careers, raising young children and growing their families when they suddenly face a life-changing diagnosis.
My research explores why breast cancer can behave differently in young and postpartum women. What makes breast surgical oncology so meaningful to me is how it brings together the parts of medicine I love most: caring for women, building lasting relationships with patients, performing surgery and pursuing scientific questions that can help improve care for future generations.
Can you describe a moment, or a case, that provided a “This is why I do this . . .” moment
Some of the most rewarding moments in surgery come after the operating room when I see patients at their postoperative appointments. Seeing someone who was once facing fear and uncertainty return feeling better, recovering well and regaining a sense of normalcy is deeply fulfilling.
It’s a reminder that the true impact of surgery extends far beyond the operating room and that being part of a patient’s journey toward recovery is one of the greatest privileges of this profession.
What is meaningful about being Jewish?
Being Jewish is an integral part of who I am and shapes the values that guide my life. What I cherish most about Judaism is its strong sense of community, the care and responsibility we share for one another, and the importance of giving back. It teaches us that every human life has immeasurable value and that preserving life and caring for others are among our greatest responsibilities.
Who has been an inspiring figure in your life?
I’ve always been inspired by strong women, especially mothers who somehow manage to juggle a million things while raising their children, caring for their families and giving so much of themselves to others.
As a new mom, I appreciate even more the endless patience, strength, and selflessness motherhood requires. Whether they’re raising a family, pursuing a career, supporting their communities or doing all of the above, I find it inspiring how much women accomplish, often without recognition. It’s the everyday dedication and love that I admire most.
What book are you reading, or one last read?
Mindset, by Carol Dwek
TV series?
I don’t watch TV too often, but when I do, I love “Seinfeld.”
What do you do in your spare time?
These days I love spending my free time with my husband and our daughter. We enjoy traveling and discovering new places together! I also enjoy staying active, cooking and hosting family and friends. One of my favorite things is bringing people together, especially over a deliNOYKAUFcious meal.
Guilty pleasure?
Cooking shows.
What is your favorite spot to go to in Colorado?
Sloan’s Lake. We love the water and always enjoy a long walk by the lake.