Kathy Tomayko will retire on Feb. 27, 2025.
When Peer Review Technician Kathy Tomayko started at Akron Children’s back in 1991, she couldn’t have predicted the pivotal role it would play in her life.
In a twist of fate worthy of the big screen, Kathy met her husband Tim, a former facilities project manager who retired in 2020, while both were working here. “As it turns out, I was friends with his sister,” she recalled. “She asked me what hospital I worked at and told me her brother worked there. Long story short, we’ve been married 30 years now.”
Embracing the mission of Akron Children’s has continued into a new generation of the Tomayko family. Their niece, Karly, works as a school clinical coordinator here.
Kathy’s journey at Akron Children’s has taken her through many departments over the years, including Administration, Audio/Visual, Hematology/Oncology and the infant unit (7200). Kathy is proud to be ending her career working in Quality/peer review. “Kevin Baker is my manager – and I’m very thankful for his guidance and his kindness,” Kathy shared. “I can’t even put into words the wonderful people I work with in quality/peer review; they are so kind, and we’ve had a lot of fun.”
When asked about her time at the hospital, Kathy said, “I love it. I’m a customer-service type of person. I feel good when I’m helping others.”
Kathy’s last day at Akron Children’s is Feb. 27. She’s looking forward to retirement so she can spend more time with her grandkids and (hopefully) travel to Italy.
Kathy enjoying the beach with her family.
What brought you to Children’s? Who gave you your start?
Kari Phillips [former executive assistant] was kind enough to give one of my friends an application for me. I’ve always been very thankful to Kari. I left ACH for 6 years – and Kathy Stoner [senior quality initiative specialist] hired me back for the last 22 years, which led to a lifetime friendship with her.
What was going on in your life then?
I was a single mother of 3 girls who kept me busy with all their activities.
What have your biggest contributions been while here?
I’ve worked in multiple departments throughout my years at Akron Children’s and would like to think that I contributed to those departments with my skills and ability to do a good job.
Other than new buildings and construction, how has Akron Children’s changed since you started here?
There are so many more employees now. When I first started in 1991, it seemed like I knew most people I saw walking in the hallway. Now I’m lucky to see someone I know!
What gave you the most satisfaction at work?
I’m at my best when I’m busy. Working in Audio/Visual, I had plenty of work and could be creative. I enjoy being able to help people.
What’s your most memorable and/or happiest moment at Akron Children’s? Why? What is it? My most memorable and happiest moment at Akron Children’s is when I began dating my husband Tim.
With so many little children here, did someone or something especially touch your heart? Working on the infant unit (7200) was wonderful. There was usually a child who was alone, and I loved keeping them company when time permitted.
What’s your idea of a perfect day?
Accomplishing everything I set out to do!
Do you have any advice for people just starting at Children’s?
Enjoy your job and be the best you can be.
What couldn’t you live without?
My family, beginning with my husband. He truly is a gem!
What’s the last book your read? What’s the last movie you saw?
The last book I read was “The Things We Leave Unfinished” by Rebecca Yarros, and I highly recommend it. We took all the grandkids to see “Mufasa” last week.
What do you like to do when you’re not at work?
When I’m not working, I love to work out at the gym, read or watch a good movie.
