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Music therapy

Music has tremendous healing power. It can be great therapy for kids undergoing cancer treatment during lengthy hospital stays. These extended periods can be particularly challenging for young children, who struggle with isolation and the monotony of hospital life while facing the terrible side effects of the treatment. Most often kids turn to screens, such as YouTube videos or mobile games, as a form of distraction. While these provide temporary relief, caregivers often face the challenge of balancing screen time with more meaningful, enriching activities. In this context, music therapy can offer a much-needed break and an alternative form of engagement.

Many children’s hospitals in Canada recognize the power of music and have integrated in-house music therapists in their care teams. Research supports the powerful effects of music therapy in pediatric oncology. Studies have shown that music therapy can significantly reduce anxiety, improve mood, and help children better manage the symptoms and side effects of their treatment. It encourages them to express their emotions in ways that might be difficult with words, and can foster communication. Through music, children can connect with their emotions, find comfort, and even experience moments of normalcy and fun during an otherwise difficult time. I would like to mention about a wonderful non-profit started by a childhood cancer mom, Ollie’s Orchestra, which provides musical instruments to children with a cancer diagnosis.

Music therapy goes beyond just offering a distraction. It helps to improve emotional and physical well-being, providing a holistic approach to healing. For children facing the harsh realities of cancer treatment, music is more than just entertainment—it is a powerful tool offering hope, connection, and healing during some of the most challenging times in their young lives.

My son, Rishaan, always looked forward to the visits from the music therapist during his time in hospital. During these sessions, the therapist brought a variety of simple instruments for him to explore, and would often sing songs or rhymes for him on the guitar. These sessions were a bright spot in our challenging days, as the music always seemed to lift his spirits and provide a sense of comfort and joy amidst pokes, prods and unpleasant medications. Outside of the hospital, Rishaan loved listening to music and hummed songs through our drives – Thunder by Imagine Dragons and Dance Monkey by Kidz Bop were some of his favourites.
And now that Rishaan is gone, music also helps me express and process grief, and come to terms with his absence.

To end, I’ll quote lyrics from a Hindi song “Laakh Duniya Kahe” that loosely translate into:
Even if the world says a million times that you are not here
You are here, you are here
In every thought of mine, in every word of mine
In my senses, in my feelings
You are everywhere

Neha Bhatnagar