Like you, I have a Specialized hybrid; mine came with 23mm tires that accepts 125 lobs of pressure. That produces a fast bike with low rolling resistance. Going with a wider tire and running lower pressures will make your bike handle slower and less efficiently, so going that way won't help you get up the hills faster or with less effort. Cycling uses muscles differently than running, so it could be that with more miles on the bike you will gain strength and technique that will help you on the commute. Don't give up - just give it some time (and miles).