It’s pretty hard to miss Daniel Fransson.

He is, in case you somehow don’t know, the 6’7” Swedish giant with a cleanly-shaven head that's shiny enough to make the Hope Diamond jealous. And not only is he easier to pick out of a crowd than Shaquille O’Neal at...well, anywhere; his familiarity with most of the ICMS community make him one of the few people around with whom both students and staff can comfortably exchange pleasantries. But even many of these people are likely not fully aware of the many selfless contributions that Daniel makes through his volunteer work at Bear Cottage, a children’s hospice that looks after kids with life-limiting illnesses.

“Helping out at Bear Cottage helps to remove all of the stress and anxiety that I accumulate throughout the work week” says Daniel, who has been volunteering for over a year. “Being able to provide assistance to those in need not only helps me keep my feet on the ground and appreciative of all that I have, but gives me the chance to really give something back by helping the wonderfully courageous kids at the Cottage.”And he wants others to follow suit.

According to Daniel, there are very few organisations that can offer the type of “supportive and enjoyable work environment” that Bear Cottage is known for providing. Michelle Pearse, Head of Volunteers at Bear Cottage, is “always so cheerful and committed” he says fondly; “an ever-welcoming presence that exudes comfort and warmth.” For Daniel, this type of personality makes all the difference and allows for him to genuinely look forward to each volunteer session.

Each week, he arrives at Bear Cottage before dinner, is greeted by Michelle and begins helping with the service. Then, as the children and their families enjoy a fun-filled meal, he has the unique opportunity to join in and get to know many of the families on a very personal level. And finally, after dinner is finished, he helps with the cleanup effort and has even more chances to speak with the kids. “Usually, some of the children come into the kitchen and just want to talk” says Daniel. “They ask me anything and everything you could imagine, but usually end with questions relating to how they can grow to be as big as me!” And it's this part of the job that Daniel enjoys most - the ability to volunteer within an organisation where he comes face-to-face with those benefiting from his contributions: the children. "I love this job" he says with a smile, "I love these kids."

If you feel that you have the time to help out at Bear Cottage or have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to email Michelle Pearse at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or contact Daniel Fransson at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .