Changing the world one random act of kindness at a time.

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A hospital is a vital place with a fast-paced environment. Nurses, doctors, therapists, and many more work together to ensure their patients’ wellbeing. When Random Acts Project Coordinator Brittney Sheffield heard that a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit needed new blankets, she knew she had to help. Brittney decided to support the PICU by providing some new blankets.

With a Little Inspiration from My Friends

Brittney got the idea for her Kindness Act from a friend, whose friend Whitney is a PICU nurse. Whitney had mentioned that her unit was in need of new blankets. Brittney heard the story and immediately knew she had to help. She then contacted Random Acts to provide the PICU with some much-needed blankets.

What is a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit?

The Pediatric Intensive Care Unit — or in short, PICU — is a section of the hospital that provides children with the highest level of medical care. The PICU cares for young critically ill patients, from newborns to young adults.
Highly skilled professionals, like nurses, physicians, respiratory therapists, cardiologists, and neurosurgeons, work closely together. Aspects like the constant monitoring of breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure are provided in the PICU. The unit might also have pharmacists, nutritionists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists who care for the patients.

Getting in Touch

Brittney’s friend connected her with Whitney at the PICU. While the unit had several items on a wishlist, Whitney told Brittney that their highest priority was the blankets. Brittney then ordered the blankets online. Now the only thing left to do was wait.

Brittney stayed in touch with Whitney and her team to coordinate the delivery of the blankets. Because the PICU unit was closed to visitors, the postal service delivered the blankets directly to the hospital.

A picture of a female nurse sitting in front of a decorated Christmas tree. She is holding a big box with soft blankets and a stuffed animal- a dog.

Whitney with Brittney’s donations

An Ordinary Blanket with a Big Impact

A little while after Brittney had ordered the blankets, she received a note from Whitney: The blankets had arrived at the PICU. Whitney also said that the PICU team really appreciated Brittney’s donation.

“While a picture can’t show the gratitude of these families, it will make their day,” says Whitney.

Whitney explained that many families come to PICU from horrible situations. An ordinary blanket might not look like much at first glance. But for these families, a simple thing like a blanket can change a lot. Brittney was happy, knowing that her Act of Kindness will make a difference in another person’s life.


Acts of Kindness do not have to be big and complicated to have a positive impact. Sometimes, it is the seemingly little things that can have a big effect. If Brittney’s Act of Kindness inspired you, head over to our Acts of Kindness page to apply for funding. Or check out our other Kindness Stories for more ideas.