Inspired by her daughter’s challenges with deafness and low vision, Debbie transitioned from teaching children with special needs for 23 years to volunteering at CHOC. With over 1,300 dedicated volunteer hours, she spreads kindness and support, brightening lives with her compassion.
From mother to teacher, and beyond
Before Debbie ever stepped into a hospital to volunteer, she had already spent a lifetime learning what it means to truly care.
A retired elementary teacher, Debbie’s journey began when her daughter, born deaf and with low vision, led her to learn sign language. This personal experience led her to teach children who were deaf and hard of hearing plus — students who also had additional challenges such as autism, blindness, cerebral palsy, or were medically fragile — for 23 years.
Teaching beyond the classroom
During her teaching career, some of her students needed surgery, and their parents would often ask Debbie to visit the hospital to help explain the procedure and ease their child’s worries. At different hospitals, she would break things down in a way that made sense to kids, helping them feel more at ease.
Though Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) has The Cherese Mari Laulhere Child Life Department to provide this kind of support, Debbie’s experiences inspired her to volunteer at CHOC after retiring, continuing her passion for helping children.
A heart of service
After a few of these hospital visits, Debbie promised herself, When I retire, I’m going to go back to the hospital and volunteer. In 2018, she fulfilled that promise and began volunteering at CHOC, where her unique background and compassionate heart continue to make a difference.
Debbie’s time at CHOC has been nothing short of remarkable. With over 1,300 hours of volunteer service, she continues to give back because she feels she can still help in whatever capacity the hospital needs. “It makes me feel good knowing I did something today — whether it’s helping a staff member, a patient, or anyone. I’m still useful, I’m still able to help,” she says.
As a volunteer in Perioperative Care and Patient Hospitality Services, Debbie stays busy assisting with patient discharges in the surgical area and taking on various roles throughout the hospital. She enjoys the unpredictability of the work and often steps in to help other floors when needed.
A smile that makes a difference
Debbie’s positivity is contagious, and she’s known for arriving at the hospital with a warm smile. She enjoys the friendly, welcoming atmosphere created by the staff and her interactions with patients and families.
There have been moments, though, that have particularly touched her heart. On a couple of occasions, she unexpectedly encountered former students during their hospital visits.
“I didn’t know they were there,” Debbie recalls. “But when I walked into their room, their eyes lit up, and of course, mine did too. It was such a special moment.”
Mentoring the next generation of volunteers
Her passion for volunteering also extends to mentoring others. As a lead volunteer, Debbie uses her teaching experience to guide new volunteers, helping them understand the importance of small but impactful details in patient care. She emphasizes, “Look at the hospital as a whole. Whatever job you’re doing, do it well, and be aware of your surroundings.”
Spreading joy
Debbie’s ability to bring light into difficult situations is something she cherishes. “When I see a child crying, it doesn’t bother me. That’s what they do. I try to bring positive feelings and smiles to everyone,” she says.
Volunteering at CHOC allows her to make a meaningful difference in a world that is full of opportunities to spread joy.
“If I see someone who looks like they’re having a rough day, I smile and ask if I can help. That makes me happy.”
A heart of gratitude
For Debbie, volunteering at CHOC isn’t just a duty — it’s a calling and a way to continue making a difference long after retirement. “It makes me feel like I’m doing something good, something that matters,” she said.
Explore more inspiring volunteer stories here.
