Daniel Moloney’s Volunteer Story

Finding your place in the world isn’t always easy — especially when people judge you before you’ve had the chance to say a word.
For Daniel Moloney, 25, the journey toward acceptance has been long and often painful. Born with a facial disfigurement (cystic hygroma), Daniel has spent his life navigating stares, comments, and barriers that most people never have to face. 

But Daniel is made of stronger things.
In 2025, he decided he wanted to give something back — not in spite of everything he had been through, but because of it. And so began his remarkable journey to becoming a volunteer at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London, one of the most respected children’s hospitals in the world.

His goal was simple: to bring joy, kindness and presence to children who need it most.
The path to get there was anything but simple.

To become a volunteer, Daniel had to complete months of preparation — online training courses, background checks, assessments, interviews, and an intensive “Starter’s Session” alongside other trainees. It was a process that would challenge anyone, but Daniel approached it with determination and patience. With the help of his father, William Moloney, and work coaches, he completed every requirement, piece by piece.

Finally, on 9 November 2025, Daniel walked through the doors of Great Ormond Street wearing his new name badge — his first badge of belonging.

He expected to spend his first day giving directions around the hospital. Instead, he was sent straight into the play area to spend time with the children. Within minutes, he was exactly where he had always hoped to be: making young patients smile.

For Daniel, this is more than volunteering.
It is proof — to himself and to the world — that he is far more than what people see at first glance. His compassion, resilience, and courage shine brighter than any label ever could.

Daniel proudly serves as a Youmanity Ambassador, using his voice and experience to promote empathy, inclusion, and dignity for all. His achievement at Great Ormond Street is not just a personal milestone. It is a reminder that when society removes its barriers — and when individuals refuse to give up — extraordinary things can happen.

Daniel has found his place. And countless children, families, and volunteers at Great Ormond Street are already better for it.

VERY WELL DONE DANIEL,  FROM ALL OF US AT YOUMANITY!!