September 15, 2026
Meet the members of our Board and staff, and get to know the people behind our mission! These blog and social media posts give you an inside look at the incredible individuals who guide our mission and shape the work we do. Next up we have Wendy Hasson, MD, FAAP, Medical Director, Pediatric ICU, at Randall Children’s Hospital. We asked Dr. Hasson to share what drew her to OPS, the issues closest to her heart, and a few lighter questions just for fun. Read on to get to know more about Dr. Hasson.
Question: What do you love about being a part of OPS?
Answer: In difficult times, it’s uplifting to be surrounded by people who are committing their lives to making the world a better place for children and families
Question: What book are you reading right now?
Answer: Parenting Siblings Without Rivalry (my kids fight CONSTANTLY)
Question: If you weren’t doing your current profession, what would you do?
Answer: Stand-up comedy/Improv
Question: What are your hopes and dreams for OPS in the future?
Answer: That OPS will remain a trusted voice in Oregon for parents, health officials, and legislators.
Question: What’s your favorite children’s book?
Answer: The Rabbit Listened – it’s a wonderful book about how to be a good friend by actively listening and sitting in discomfort.
Question: What children’s issue are you really passionate about?
Answer: The majority of children I care for in the ICU are there for a preventable reason. My goal is to keep kids out of the ICU by advocating for immunization access, mental health services, and sensible public health initiatives that help prevent injury.
Question: What’s your favorite children’s movie?
Answer: Wild Robot
Question: What was your favorite subject in school? Why?
Answer: Theatre!
Question: What are your hobbies?
Answer: Hobbies!? I’m a full time working mom of two who spends my free time doing pediatric advocacy work! What better hobby is there!?
Question: What is your favorite part about your job?
Answer: There is nothing scarier for a parent than to have their child admitted to the ICU. It’s a true honor to guide families through this most vulnerable time.
Question: What did you want to be when you were growing up?
Answer: A musical theatre star
Question: What was your favorite afterschool snack?
Answer: Bagel Bites – “Pizza in the morning, pizza in the evening, pizza at suppertime! When pizza’s on a bagel, you can eat pizza anytime!”
We appreciate Dr. Hasson taking the time to share her story with us. From guiding families through some of their most vulnerable moments in the ICU to advocating for the policies that could keep kids out of it in the first place, it is clear she is dedicated to giving Oregon’s kids the healthiest possible future. We’re so grateful for her voice on the OPS Board and as co-chair of our Advocacy Committee, her leadership will continue to help shape our efforts for years to come.
Feeling inspired and ready to make a difference too? There are plenty of ways to get more involved with OPS—whether that’s joining a committee, attending an upcoming event, or simply connecting with a community of providers who share your values. Contact us.
