Bridging Care and Compassion in Many Corners of the Hospital

Meet Daily Point of Light Award honoree Sunny Tian. Read her story, and nominate an outstanding volunteer or family as a Daily Point of Light.

Sunny Tian has been making a meaningful impact as a volunteer in the Emergency Department at Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Hospital since 2024. In a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, she plays a vital role in facilitating communication between patients and healthcare staff. Her commitment to supporting patient needs has helped ensure that urgent concerns are addressed efficiently while also providing much-needed comfort to individuals navigating medical uncertainty.

In addition to her communication role, Sunny assists with essential operational tasks that keep the Emergency Department running smoothly. From helping nurses during triage to restocking medical supply carts, she contributes behind the scenes in ways that directly support patient care. Her attention to detail and reliability have made her a valuable asset to the hospital team, especially during moments when quick thinking and calm execution are key.

Sunny’s service goes beyond the ER, as she also volunteers in the Medical Care Unit (MCU), where she helps staff with non-clinical tasks aimed at enhancing patient comfort. Her presence in both departments shows versatility and dedication, as she balances logistical support with empathy-driven care. By reducing the daily workload of medical professionals, she not only improves workflow but also helps create a more compassionate environment for patients.

Volunteering roughly 12 to 15 hours each month, Sunny has found an impactful way to blend her interest in healthcare with her growing skills in communication and problem-solving. Read on to hear more about why she volunteers.

Tell us about your volunteer roles.

I’ve been a volunteer in the emergency department at Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center for over a year, accumulating 350 hours of service. First, I play a role in maintaining an organized and efficient environment by restocking essential supplies for the medical staff. This includes ensuring that the carts are fully stocked with everything from tourniquets to IV injection. This behind-the-scenes work is crucial for allowing nurses and doctors to focus on patient care without interruption.

Additionally, I contribute to employee wellness by providing support to the medical staff. I regularly check on and tidy up the recharge rooms, which includes maintaining massage chairs in perfect working order, as well as keeping the space organized and clean. My goal is to help create an environment where our dedicated healthcare professionals can find a moment of calm and recharge before returning to their critical work. This not only allows the staff to manage their demanding schedules but also helps create a positive and supportive atmosphere.

Why is this issue so important to you?

Working in the emergency department has given me a deep appreciation for the dedication of healthcare professionals and the strength of patients. The hospital environment, especially the ED, can often feel overwhelming and impersonal. I’m passionate about this issue because I believe that kindness and empathy are fundamental to healing, and even small acts of service can have a powerful impact on someone’s well-being. This experience has solidified my long-term goal of working in the healthcare field, where I hope to continue contributing to a compassionate and patient-centered environment.

What inspired you to get started with this initiative?

I was inspired to start volunteering in the emergency department because I wanted to be a part of a community that prioritizes helping others. I have always loved helping people, and I was looking for a way to contribute that felt meaningful and direct. My own experiences with family members in the hospital showed me how much comfort a small act of kindness can provide during a difficult time. This personal connection motivated me to seek out a role where I could offer that same support to others.

What’s been the most rewarding part of your work?

The most rewarding part of my work has been witnessing the impact of small gestures. Often, it’s not a grand action but something simple like fetching a warm blanket for a shivering patient, getting a cup of water for an anxious family member or restocking the medical carts in the background to help the nurses. There have been many times when a patient or nurse has simply thanked me for being there to help. This makes me feel grateful for the chance to provide such gratitude to those around me.

What are your long-term plans or goals for the organization?

My long-term goal is to see the volunteer program more deeply integrated with other departments in the hospital. While my focus has been on the emergency department, I’ve seen firsthand how valuable volunteer support is. By working with leadership, I hope to help create a model where our volunteers can be a resource for other areas, such as the MCU. This would not only provide a broader support network for the hospital but also offer volunteers a wider range of experiences, ultimately strengthening the organization as a whole.

What have you learned through your experiences volunteering?

Volunteering in the emergency department has taught me a great deal about empathy, patience and perspective. It has given me a profound appreciation for the tireless work of doctors, nurses and other hospital staff. My experiences have shown me the importance of teamwork and how every role, no matter how small, contributes to the well-being of the patient. Ultimately, this work has reminded me to be grateful and to always offer kindness to others.

Why is it important for others to get involved with causes they care about?

I believe it’s incredibly important for others to get involved with causes they care about because it connects you to your community and allows you to make a tangible difference. Volunteering provides an opportunity to step outside of your own daily life and contribute to something larger than yourself. It can open your eyes to new perspectives, build new skills and introduce you to people who share your values. Whether you’re passionate about helping people, animals or the environment, there’s a need for your time and energy. Getting involved isn’t just about helping others; it’s also a powerful way to enrich your own life and find a deeper sense of purpose.

Any advice for people who want to start volunteering?

If your intention is good and you are kind and loving toward people, you can work toward community welfare. You can join a team, you can find an opportunity that fits you, but it involves first coming forward to help people.

What do you want people to learn from your story?

My advice for anyone who wants to start volunteering is to simply take the first step. Start by identifying a cause or organization that genuinely interests you. Think about what you’re passionate about and what skills you have, but also be open to trying something new. Once you find an opportunity, don’t be afraid to ask questions and be open to learning. Remember that every small act of kindness counts, and the most important thing you can bring to any volunteer role is a willing heart and a desire to help.

Do you want to make a difference in your community like Sunny? Find local volunteer opportunities.