Music Therapy Programs

“I was driven to do my Fellowship in Palliative Medicine after working as an Emergency doctor and recognising that there is so much more we can do to provide better care for patients.

My first experience with music therapy was on the Palliative Care Unit at St Paul’s, and my first impression was that I couldn’t believe how good it was and how needed it was by patients, and also that it wasn’t a bigger presence on the unit.

I am humbled by Josh Denny-Keys (PHC Palliative Care Music Therapist) and his ability to meet patients where they’re at. He doesn’t come into every patient’s room with the same Beatles song; he takes the time to get to know the patient, their needs and to understand why I might suggest he visit them. Josh talks to patients and their loved ones to find out who they really are and how music therapy could fit into the story of their life, especially knowing what stage of life they’re currently in – it actually blows me away the level of customised care he provides.

The feedback from patients who engage with music therapy is universally positive. It’s also extraordinary to see patients cared for in an approach that is so deeply tailored to their individual needs. I now encourage every staff member in Palliative Care to include music therapy as part of the initial patient screening – it really helps provides comprehensive care and I could not support music therapy more strongly.”

AS PALLIATIVE CARE PATIENTS NEAR THE END OF LIFE, MUSIC THERAPY BRINGS COMFORT AND SPECIAL MOMENTS WITH LOVED ONES.

Thank you to donors for making this program possible!

Michael’s mother, Maree, spent 6 days on the Palliative Care Unit at St Paul’s Hospital after being transferred from ICU. Despite battling cancer, she found contentment during this time – a true testament to the compassionate care provided by the palliative care team and the unexpected joy of music therapy.

“I’ve never been a ‘hospital person’ but I liked being on the palliative floor and you couldn’t have a better representation of palliative care than Josh (PHC Palliative Care Music Therapist) and their entire team. It’s hard to describe, but it’s like the spirit of my mom’s body came alive here. Seeing Mum go from being unable to move in the ICU to bouncing her feet and tapping her hands while Josh played music on the Palliative Care Unit was so soothing and will be a lasting memory for me. I really will remember it forever.”

MICHAEL FERGUSON