William D. Hardie ’85, M.D.
Professor of Pediatrics, Division of Pulmonary Medicine – Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical CenterBiography
As a pediatric pulmonologist, William treats general pediatric issues as well as patients who have shortness of breath with exercise. He also cares for patients with a primary spontaneous pneumothorax, an abnormal accumulation of air in the space between the lungs and the chest cavity (the pleural space).
William has broad experience in many facets of pediatric pulmonary medicine, but not one primary focus. His understanding of exercise physiology is somewhat unique since he has played or coached several sports, including four years as a college swimmer and two years playing water polo while in medical school. This experience helps William relate well to many of the patients who are active in sports and have limitations related to breathing. As one of his mentors said, “The secret to caring for the patient is to care for the patient.”
William has maintained a basic science laboratory for more than 20 years focused on pulmonary fibrosis. His colleagues and William seek to identify the proteins and cellular pathways associated with this disorder and explore potential novel treatments. His clinical research interests include cardiopulmonary exercise testing in patients with shortness of breath with exercise. While not a research activity, William is very involved with national and state organizations advocating for improving air quality.
William grew up near Wilmington College in Ohio and worked for the Cincinnati Bengals during their summer training camps. His first year at Cincinnati Children’s as an intern in 1990 was the last year the Bengals won a playoff game. He vows not to leave Cincinnati Children’s until this happens again!
William is happy to be contacted by students, faculty and alumni interested in pre-med or looking for advice on applying to medical school:
- Speaking with a student virtually or on the phone
- Presenting to a class in-person
- Presenting to a student organization
- Conducting a virtual webinar
- Mentoring a student
- Getting into medical school; career in the medical field
While at Ohio Wesleyan, William was a Pre-Med major, a member of the varsity Swimming team and member of Phi Beta Kappa.