A symphony of comfort and care
Touch and music are two things so engrained in our everyday lives that we might not notice the power they have in someone’s care journey. From the sound of music from a favourite record to holding a loved one’s hand —it’s hard to imagine life without them and their impact to care, comfort and connection.
At St. Joseph’s, donors have made it possible for touch and music to be an important part of the care experience. Thanks to their enthusiastic support of the 2023 Season of Celebration, more than $781,890 to support pianos for therapeutic recreation, cuddle beds, blanket warmers, slings for patient lifts and so much more.
The pianos have found a home in St. Joseph’s Mental Health Care Program – and have become a new way for caregivers and patients to bond.
“As advocates for our patients, we appreciate the donation of pianos because they assist with many facets of patient care,” says Sheila Heinicke, Occupational Therapist. “It provides an avenue to connect with emotions that are otherwise inaccessible.”
Chandler, a patient at St. Joseph’s, has found great enjoyment and enlightenment from the newly donated pianos. “My mother was a piano player when I was a kid,” Chandler says. “I’d ask her to play songs for me from her music book.”
The piano has become a central part of his therapy sessions, along with many other patients. It’s more than just a musical instrument—it now acts as a bridge for patients and caregivers, and an outlet for patients to explore their feelings in a way that was previously not offered.
Chandler's experience is just one example of how donors to Season of Celebration have enriched the lives of patients at St. Joseph’s. Special donor-funded cuddle beds in the Veterans Care Program have also transformed the palliative care experience for families facing some of life’s hardest moments.
“It’s a beautiful thing to have something that enhances our patients’ well-being during their end-of-life journey,” shares Tichelle Schram, Clinical Manager, Veterans Care Program.
The cuddle beds provide the warmth and comfort of physical touch that isn’t found in a traditional hospital bed. Designed to mimic the familiarity of a patient’s bed back at home and allow people to cuddle up next to one another, these special beds have allowed families to find comfort and solace in what could be their loved one’s final moments.
For decades, donor generosity has fostered a culture of compassion and connection within the hospital walls, ensuring that every patient feels dignified and cared for throughout their care journey. And the support of donors through Season of Celebration brightens lives all year round.