More than medicine: A personal and professional journey

For David L. Weisoly, DO, becoming a leader in neonatal care wasn’t just a professional journey—it was deeply personal. As a neonatologist and father of premature twins, his approach to medicine was shaped by the unique empathy born from his own struggles. This experience gave him a profound understanding of the emotional and medical challenges families face when their newborns are at risk.

"Experiencing that worry, fear and hope firsthand makes me see my patients' families in a way no textbook ever could," Weisoly said. "It taught me that medical care is only part of the equation—emotional support is just as essential."

The heart of empathy in medicine

Weisoly’s career in medicine has been driven by both his personal journey and a desire to make a difference. A 1998 alumnus of Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine (KCU-COM), he earned his medical degree and found his calling in neonatology, where he became known for his compassionate approach to care. “There’s nothing more fulfilling than being in a field where you know you can have a real impact,” he said. “When you're treating a sick infant, you’re not just caring for a patient—you're supporting an entire family. Their emotional well-being matters just as much as the medical care we provide.”

This approach has defined Weisoly’s career, whether he’s teaching or mentoring medical students, residents, fellows and early career physicians, leading neonatal quality improvement initiatives, or influencing policies that affect health care on a broader scale. He is committed to not only improving care but also creating lasting change in the neonatal field. “I want to be part of efforts that move the needle,” he said. “It’s about improving care standards, educating future doctors and advocating for the best possible start in life for every infant.”

Leadership in neonatal care and advocacy

Weisoly’s leadership extends beyond patient care. As the long-time chair of the neonatal committee for The Texas Collaborative for Healthy Mothers and Babies, he has played a crucial role in standardizing practices that save lives. His commitment to advancing neonatal care led to his appointment as adjunct associate professor of Pediatrics and Neonatology and director of advocacy and government affairs at UT Health Houston McGovern Medical School, where he advocates for policies that improve infant care on both regional and national levels. “To make lasting change, you need to influence the policies that affect patient care,” Weisoly said. “Advocacy, education and system-level reforms are just as critical as direct care in improving outcomes for our most vulnerable patients.”

In October 2024, Weisoly received the Alumni Service Award at KCU’s Homecoming, honoring his contributions to neonatal care and his leadership in improving community health. The award recognizes alumni who embody KCU’s mission of service, leadership and impact—and Weisoly’s work in advancing neonatal care exemplifies these values.

A continuing legacy

Weisoly’s legacy continues through his son Nathan, one of the twins, who has recently been accepted into KCU-COM. Inspired by his father’s example, Nathan said, “The best thing I’ve learned from my dad is empathy. I’ve seen patients years later, still sharing how much his care meant to them. That’s the kind of doctor I want to be.”

Nathan will graduate from Dickinson College in spring 2025 and begin his studies at KCU in the fall. “I’m excited to follow my dad’s example and make a meaningful impact, just like he has,” he said.

As Weisoly reflects on his career, his legacy is clear, it’s not about accolades, but the lives he has affected. Whether through improving neonatal care, advocating for change or mentoring new and future doctors, his impact compounds. Nathan’s decision to pursue medicine is a living testament to that legacy. "My goal has always been to make a difference," Weisoly said. “And when I look back, what matters most is knowing I’ve helped improve lives, including through the next generation of doctors like Nathan."

Weisoly’s journey is not just a reflection of his career but also of a father’s guidance. His impact is a promise that his work will ripple forward into the next generation of medical professionals, and that the Weisoly family legacy of compassionate care will continue for years to come.