At Wishing Well, we see the impact of live music every day, but some stories truly stand out and remind us why we do what we do. We’re honoured to share a moving testimonial from a woman in Sussex whose life was touched by our music during an incredibly challenging time.
Her Story
I was in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in 2022, seriously ill with double pneumonia. I was put into an induced coma to save my life. ICU delirium is horrendous and scary, but there was one calming moment I remembered, and it was hearing music.
When I came out of the coma, I mentioned it to a few people, but they thought I imagined it. A few months after leaving the hospital, I had a call with the ICU psychologist and mentioned the music being so vivid. The psychologist confirmed they sometimes have a cellist play for patients. My sister also recalled seeing someone pack away an instrument during her visit.
Fast forward a couple of years, and a friend told me about a group for wellness with a cello player. I wondered if it could be the same one that played to me when I was in a coma… and it turns out it is!
We met for a coffee and I wanted to thank her so much for giving me a bit of light when I was in the darkest period of my life. I’m honoured to have met her and am forever grateful.
Research shows that music can stimulate brain activity in remarkable ways, even for patients in comas. Familiar melodies and soothing tones may activate neural pathways, potentially aiding recovery and providing emotional relief in overwhelming medical situations. ICU delirium, a condition often experienced by patients in intensive care, can be terrifying, but live music has been shown to reduce anxiety and create a sense of stability.
This story is a testament to how a simple act of sharing a musical moment can profoundly impact lives. We are grateful that we are able to share this story.
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