Music Therapy Experiences
I cannot say enough about your music therapist. Truly, music touches the soul and Mom enjoyed it so much. I also appreciated talking with her on the phone, listening, and supporting my anguish. Thank you for ministering to Mom with her favorite hymns.
I am a registered nurse with end stage Muscular Sclerosis. I have participated in music therapy throughout my time with DeKalb County Hospice. One of my main pursuits has been song writing in conjunction with Jen, the music therapist. Most profound has been writing the lyrics for a song I've titled, "A Journey With M.S." Writing this song for me has been a way to express my inner feelings about my experience with M.S. and allow me some time for grieving and acceptance. I have been able to do this in a way with Jen that I would not have done with other friends or relatives. I'm not sure why it's that way, but somehow the music enabled me to open something different, a new and different door to creativity. I never thought I would be learning something new after being at this stage with a disabling illness. Yet I have come to realize how important it has been to me to have these music "projects" to work on and look forward to. Even at this stage of my illness, the fact that I can create has helped me to find some purpose. I would say that music therapy helps provide me with a feeling of worthiness and an outlet that offers me something unique. I know for myself it has been an inspiration and something to keep me focused on living.
- Joan Needham
The music therapist brought joy that touched my sister's heart like nothing else has done since she was diagnosed with AD. The rest of the family has tried, and will continue to, try to find things that interest or amuse her.
My sister was truly moved when Jen played the piano and sang so beautifully. My sister used to play difficult piano pieces and has lost her ability to play at all. When we were kids, we used to sing harmony to Steven Foster songs while she played the piano.
Jen offered to play those old tunes and my sister teared up, she was so moved. I asked her if she was alright? Did she want Jen to continue?
"Oh, yes. Oh yes. It's so beautiful." She said.
It was a wonderful session and Jen's gift becomes a turning point for the family to know that "she's still in there" even tho she can't always say what she wants, my sister is still "in there!"
I would like to thank you for adding music therapy to your services! It has made a special and meaningful impact for the residents at Pine Acres Rehabilitation and Living Center. Whether they are hospice patients or not, everyone is touched by Jen's music. You can just see residents relax, focus and enjoy her music. I have known about music therapy for a long time, but this is the first time that I have seen it in application. I must admit, I never gave music therapy the credit it deserves. It changes people and makes a huge impact on their quality-of-life. I am very, very impressed.
I was especially touched and very grateful that Jen was able to play for Helen Bozovich when she passed away. Helen was a retired NIU mathematics professor and truly enjoyed the arts. She had never married and her nearest relative, a nephew, lives in Minnesota. She had out lived her friends in DeKalb and she was rather alone in this world, except for caregivers here. Helen experienced a fair amount of discomfort and uncontrolled chronic pain in her physical decline. She sometimes moaned for extended periods of time. But, when Jen played and sang for Helen she was always smiling and calm... I am very glad that Helen was surrounded by the music that she loved when she died. It is something I will always remember.
I must also admit that sometimes I can't decide whether I am a big fan of music therapy or a big fan of Jen Conley. She is so talented and gifted! DeKalb County Hospice is very fortunate to have her.
Thank you again for adding music therapy. It has made your organization even more of a blessing to our community...
Sincerely,
Dalena Kemna-Kahn
Administrator, Pine Acres Rehab and Living Center
