Music in Health
Since 2016, our Music in Health program has played a crucial role in reconnecting patients to their sense of self, and bringing hope, comfort and connection during the most challenging moments of their lives. Our music therapists help patients express the inexpressible, rediscover themselves, and find moments of happiness and hope in the face of cancer and treatment.
The program is funded entirely through donations, and ongoing support is vital to ensure it can keep thriving and reaching all patients.
The transformative power of music
Connecting Toni with her loved ones
"While I was in hospital for brain and spinal surgery, Music Therapy helped me feel connected to my boys. With my therapist, I wrote a song about the things they love, and sharing it with them brought comfort and joy when I felt so far away. That support for my emotional health made a world of difference."
Bringing comfort to Lisa and Gary
"The first time we heard music at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse was the day before Gary’s lung operation. Amid so much anxiety and uncertainty, hearing a pianist play lifted our spirits and gave us hope. Music was a source of comfort, healing, and acceptance, and I’ll be forever grateful for the support it gave us."
Bringing Nathan hope for the future
"After my mouth cancer surgery, I was anxious, in pain, and uncertain about what the future would hold. One morning, while my wound was being redressed, Music Therapist Netta played ‘I Can See Clearly Now’ for me. The song lifted my spirits and gave me hope for the first time since my diagnosis."
“It makes my day. I'll walk out of here singing and I'll sing all the way up the street. It's just so good for the soul.”
James, Chris O'Brien Lifehouse patient
About the program
Our trained and qualified music therapists lead Music in Health. Through guided music therapy, group singing, meditation and more, patients find calm, joy and emotional support during their cancer treatment. The program is entirely free for our patients and consists of:
