Paula F. Goldberg
Champion for Children with Disabilities Award

Haley Brunelle exemplifies the spirit of the Paula F. Goldberg Champion for Children with Disabilities Award in her personal and professional life. As a mom to an eight-year-old with a rare genetic condition, she understands the challenges caregivers face. Haley has used her experience to advocate for adult changing tables to be required in new construction buildings, host a podcast where parents of medically complex children share their stories, and teach yoga classes to adults with disabilities. Haley is a Family Engagement in Research Coordinator at Gillette Children’s Hospital, where she works to meaningfully engage families with the hospital’s research projects.

Haley’s Gillette colleague, Rhonda Cady, said this of Haley in her nomination:

“Haley was thrown into navigating the world of complex health and disability services. Her positive view of the world and ability to give grace to any and all situations transformed a former marketing executive into a fierce advocate who is focused on helping persons with rare and complex health conditions navigate ‘the system’ and obtain the resources they need to thrive. Haley has taught our research teams how to authentically partner with [families] and embrace open, honest communication and ‘outside the box’ ideas. Her vision is directly impacting the care and quality of life for children with disabilities.”

Haley received a second nomination from her friend Tram Nguyen, who stated:

“Haley is a dedicated advocate, leader, and innovator in the disability community who is using her lived experience and professional expertise to create a lasting impact. As a mother of a child with complex medical needs, Haley has transformed personal challenges into systemic change through legislative advocacy, community engagement, and leadership.”