Patient to Volunteer: Sophia's Story
April 22, 2025By: Sophia Riser
Categories: Personal Perspectives
My Volunteering Story
I've always believed that volunteering is important for the community, but did not realize how much it benefited volunteers until I became one.
In 2017, I was admitted to the Emergency Department at Valley Children’s for severe bleeding and was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disorder that causes low platelet levels. Through ongoing appointments with the Hematology care teams, I am now managing the disease and thriving. I knew when I could, I wanted to give back to Valley Children’s and now I am able to say I am a proud Valley Children’s volunteer.
When I was hospitalized, I had a connection with George, the beloved mascot with the biggest heart! I enjoyed seeing all the giraffe decorations around the hospital and the little plushies at the gift shop. I knew George was a bright spot that brings a smile to everyone's face, so being a part of that experience for other patients and families was the way I decided to give back to Valley Children’s.
Since 2022, I have given more than 495 hours of my time volunteering as everyone’s favorite mascot, George, a Patient Pal, NICU Cuddler and most recently, greeting families in the Valley Children’s Emergency Department.
My favorite part of being a volunteer is when I get to see the impact it has on patients and families. Whether that is through bringing excitement through George or soothing a crying baby, it reminds me of why I'm doing it.
Everyone benefits from the work of volunteers, whether they realize it or not. There are so many organizations like Valley Children’s that benefit from volunteer efforts and sometimes giving a few hours of time to support those makes a big difference for someone else. Volunteer work makes a huge impact on the community, so I think that when you are able to do so, it's important to give back to others in the same way that so many people have given to you.
At the end of the day, Valley Children's strives to bring joy to patients, and I love being a volunteer who helps with part of that mission.