Volunteering at Seattle Children’s Hospital

I volunteer once a week for Seattle Children’s Hospital in the Child Life Department. Part of my job as a volunteer is to visit inpatient children in their hospital rooms. The volunteer shift can include anything from holding a baby while the parent is away, playing Legos or coloring with a child, to reading and playing games with teenagers. If the child/teen is feeling well enough, we can bring them to the playroom where there are a variety of activities available for them.

Volunteering with Children’s hospital has really opened my eyes to how brave these children are. They are in a new place with new people coming in and out of their rooms, and sometimes their parents have to go to work so they are alone in their rooms for a good part of the day. Recently I was with a little girl who was very happy to have someone come to her room with coloring books, crafts, and a movie. For two hours we colored, made snowman crafts, and giggled at the silly Sponge Bob movie. Being able to give back and volunteer at Seattle Children’s hospital means so much to me. Every week I get to visit a different patient with a different circumstance and the fact that I have the privilege to bring some happiness into a sick child’s day by bringing them a toy, a game, a book, or just sitting and talking with them is one of the most rewarding feelings.

The motto at Seattle Children’s Hospital is “Hope. Care. Cure.” These words are not just words; they have built a culture for the people that work at the hospital. There is an incredible vibe throughout the hospital that these doctors, nurses, volunteers, and employees are dedicated to bringing hope to the lives of these children and families. As we approach this holiday season, I am thankful for good health in the lives of those around me and send thoughts of hope and happiness to those who may have to spend their holidays in a hospital with their loved ones.