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Visitor at Delta Hospital witnesses healing benefits of music therapy

Editor: As I rounded the corner of the second floor at Delta Hospital to visit with my mom last week, I was greeted by the sweet sounds of an acoustic guitar being played somewhere down the hallway.

Editor: As I rounded the corner of the second floor at Delta Hospital to visit with my mom last week, I was greeted by the sweet sounds of an acoustic guitar being played somewhere down the hallway. As I approached my mother's room, I could hear it coming from there, and as I entered, was greeted by Joanne Tait, the music therapist.

She was midstream "Besseme Mucho," and the three senior ladies in the room were smiling and trilling along.

Joanne asked if she should stop so I could visit with my mom, but no, I was as uplifted by her gift as were the gals. I should add the staff was all smiling as well.

She played and we sang along, for about a halfhour, although I wasn't really aware of time passing and could barely hold back tears of immense gratitude.

What a privilege to participate in and personally observe the healing benefits of music therapy. Of course, Joanne was brilliantly talented and kind. This program is no longer funded by Delta Hospital, but is sponsored by the Delta Hospital Auxiliary, which will certainly receive a donation from me.

Sharon Edelmeier