Dr. Yolanda Becker
Director of Kidney and Pancreas Transplant Surgery at University of Chicago
“Knowledge is really exploding- and being able to share that knowledge globally is amazing.”
Read Dr. Yolanda’s full profile below
What do you do every day?
I am a transplant surgeon. What is most remarkable about my life is that there is no typical day. I teach at a medical school, so somedays I teach, somedays I operate, somedays I am in an admin role as the head of the transplant center. I have two kids, so I am a mom, and I'm also a wife. Every day is gift and some days are fabulous, a few can be a lump of coal, but the differences make it all so much fun.
Why do you love it?
Being a transplant surgeon, I get to help people have a new life. With one operation, I get to change their lives. Helping people find meaning through a donation is also very rewarding- we can offer comfort that even in death your loved one can still help someone else! It's a big job, there's a lot to it, and you do have to make choices. Even if I could make different choices, I would still make the same choices- because it is always worth it. Nothing worthwhile is ever easy. It's rare and wonderful to be able to offer respite from misery to people, and I love that.
What were your moments of fear and challenges in your career?
One of the things I struggle with all the time is balance. Where do I want to be in 25 years? I'm very dedicated to my family and kids, and I constantly want to make sure that I can be there for my family! I worry that it might be easier for my kids if I could be at home all the time, but at the same time, it's something I need for me. The balance between personal and professional and the expectations I have for myself and the people around me. I hate to feel like I am letting anyone down.
What are some of the latest innovations in science that you are most excited about?
There's always new discoveries and new medications that come on board that help transplants last longer, medications with fewer side effects. Knowledge is really exploding- and being able to share that knowledge globally is amazing.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in New Orleans, my parents still live there! I went to Tulane for college and I was on the Homecoming Court!
What is your unique talent?
I play the piano, and I used to ride horses!
Tell us about your personal style.
Never be afraid to buy a good pair of shoes! Shoes are your friend! You never have too many pairs of black shoes. You have to dress the part, look good and feel good! Something that makes you feel amazing and smile! I paint my toenails, and I do nail art on my big toe, because that makes me feel good! There's nothing wrong with enjoying being a girl.
Is there a current book or book you love?
I read about a book a week- recently I've read The Nerd Girls with my daughter and The Secret with my son, and an Amy Pan novel! The book on my nightstand is The Valley of the Amazement.
I love Gone with the Wind!
What is your favorite website or fun activity?
People Magazine! I read it every Friday.
Who inspires you?
"Adversity is a confidant, but misery is a choice."
John Tarpley, my mentor.
My mom who is a engineer- and she was one of the only moms growing up who worked. I was always so proud of her and she would tell me- nothing good comes easy, keep going! There were really no barriers in the world, except the ones I put out. And she really taught me that- and gave me a level of confidence that she was always there behind me!
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