Haley Luedeke, affectionately known as “Hay Hay” or “Luda,” has dedicated her career to making a difference in the lives of children and their families. Whether through her work or her personal interests, Haley is someone whose enthusiasm and compassion shine through in everything she does.
From Brunswick to Cincinnati
Haley hails from Brunswick, Ohio, a charming town near Cleveland. One of her favorite spots in her hometown is Mapleside Farms, a picturesque destination she recommends visiting if you’re ever in the area. A loyal Cleveland Browns fan, Haley fondly remembers her hometown as a place full of cherished memories that shaped her into who she is today.
A Calling to the Medical Field
Initially planning to pursue a nursing degree at Ohio University, Haley’s path changed after volunteering at Give Kids the World, a Make-A-Wish resort in Florida. That weeklong experience opened her eyes to the profound impact she could have on children and their families in the health care setting.
“I knew after that I wanted to work with children and their family members in some capacity to normalize their lives in health care,” Haley shares. A simple Google search led her to the Association of Child Life Professionals, where she discovered the career path of a certified child life specialist. Inspired and determined, she changed her major and set her sights on this specialized and meaningful field.
Returning to Cincinnati Children’s
Haley’s journey eventually brought her to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, where she worked for five years before briefly exploring another health care system. However, her heart brought her back to Cincinnati Children’s.
“The culture here is unmatched,” she says. “The values and how we approach colleagues, patients, and family members show in our work each day.”
Her Role at Cincinnati Children’s
As a certified child life specialist, Haley focuses on supporting children undergoing radiology procedures, including nuclear medicine, fluoroscopy, and MRI/CT. Her role is vital in helping young patients and their families navigate what can often be intimidating experiences, providing emotional support, education, and a sense of normalcy.
Life Beyond Work
When she’s not making a difference at the hospital, Haley enjoys a variety of hobbies. She loves reading, tackling puzzles, and exploring new restaurants and breweries. An avid nature enthusiast, she frequently goes on hikes and walks with her beloved dog, Finnegan, affectionately nicknamed “Finn.”
Haley’s journey is a testament to the power of following your passion and making an impact on the lives of others. Whether she’s supporting patients at the hospital or enjoying her favorite hobbies, Haley’s warmth and dedication leave a lasting impression on everyone she meets.
Glenn Miñano is a media specialist in the Department of Radiology, providing graphic design, photography, printing, video services, and administration of the department’s online properties. His works have been published in several medical articles, such as the American Journal of Radiology and the American Institute of Ultrasound. He has been providing these services to the Radiology Department since 1996.
Meredith Towbin is a freelance copy editor and writer. She has copyedited the Department of Radiology’s blog since it launched. She also works as a copy editor for the home improvement website BobVila.com. Her writing has been featured on HuffPost as well as other writing sites.
