CF is a Scripps employee, a social worker, implying that her level of service to Scripps patients is on the caring end of the spectrum. So, when she was recently diagnosed with lung cancer, other staff members started coming out of the woodwork.

I entered CF's room mid-afternoon, her husband and two visitors present. The whole group was very anxious, awaiting the arrival of a gurney to transport CF to the basement for a bone scan. The appointment was scheduled just 45 minutes prior, exacerbating the tenseness of the situation. I offered music therapy, and the patient declined, stating that she would be leaving shortly, although she would otherwise love it. I suggested going down to the basement with her, and she said that if it were permitted, she would be thrilled. The orderly arrived within minutes, so, along with CF and her husband, I walked down to nuclear medicine, toting my guitar and songbook. The CAT scan technicians had no problem with my being there.

CF stated that she would like soothing music, with lyrics, and that music from the ‘60s and ’70s would be great. As the procedure began, CF closed her eyes, and I suggested she take slow deep breaths from her belly, a technique facilitated by her being prostrate. As I sang and played guitar to Hey Jude, Let It Be, and other melodic songs of the patient’s youth, her breathing began to slow, and a peaceful look appeared on her face. Even her husband began to look more relaxed.

The entire session lasted about 25 minutes, and at the end, both CF and her husband expressed their deep appreciation. They mentioned that she would be undergoing a gamma knife treatment in three days and requested that I accompany them during that; I said that I would.

Music and lyrics provide a focal point for the mind, melody and message on which to concentrate one’s energies. Anxieties can dissipate when the willing listener shifts her attention to themes of peace and hope.
 
View the other five Patient Highlights    A   B   D   E   F