Stamford Health Volunteer Spotlight: Daniel Lopez Monterrozo

Stamford Health is thankful for the many volunteers that make a difference at the hospital every day. Our staff ensures that our volunteers are well-matched and well-recognized for their individual strengths and talents, with a fit for everyone — from teenagers to adults! Today, we're spotlighting Daniel Lopez Monterrozo, who volunteers at a few departments of the hospital. We hope his story may inspire you to volunteer; you can learn more about our volunteer opportunities here.

Thank you for all the work you do for Stamford Health! Tell us about your volunteer work.

Since February, I have been volunteering with two different departments: Thursdays at the first desk; Fridays at the infusion center in the Warner Building on the 2nd floor.

What do you typically do on your shifts?

I’m usually stocking patient rooms, cleaning them, or just helping the staff in any way I can. I sometimes help get patients to the rooms, notify staff, and make sure they have the right papers. I do any small thing I can do to help them.

Why did you become a volunteer?

I’ve always known that I wanted to have a job in health care but this past year, I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease and I went to so many different doctors and so many different hospitals. When I found the right doctor that could help – it just confirmed to me that this job isn’t just like any other job, it changes lives every day.

I’m an allied health major at UConn Stamford. I am a freshman, hoping to go to medical school in the future. A career in health care is so impactful and people don’t take it for granted. It’s such a long and lengthy process to become a physician, but to put a smile on someone’s face so they can go home, and their family can see them happy – that’s the best thing anyone can do.

Do you have any advice for others looking to get involved?

I would encourage them to volunteer. I know it’s hard at the beginning, but you get used to it. It will become your second home; it just becomes a great experience. I feel sad when my shift ends, but I leave and I know I impacted someone in a positive way, even if what I did is so miniscule – it put a smile on someone’s face.