We live in a world of noise, and one noise that soothes the soul is the sound of music.
Each year since 2008, the Peace Arch Hospital Auxiliary has been sponsoring a music program that takes place in our two residential units.
The Arts Way program is where professional musicians come to the residents to perform. These performances take place once a month in each floor of the Dr. Hogg and Weatherby pavilions.
The program is different each month, it may be a quartet, it may be a duet either voice or instrumental. The programs are varied so that it allows for as many types of music as possible to be performed.
There have been piano performances and many other types of music including violin, guitar and many other instruments.
The purpose of this music program is to make the lives of our residents as home-like as possible.
Music has meaning for all of us. We all have memories of music that has a special significance for all of us.
The themes of movies, of TV shows, the songs that we may have danced to at special occasions including weddings have meaning to us. We have memories of where we were when we first heard that special song.
The music program is not geared to be interactive, and the type of music is geared to be soothing and calming and is appropriate for people that otherwise could be agitated.
Caregivers notice how people who are very quiet seem to come to life when music is played.
It touches the heart of people who may not have heard that special piece of music for a long time.
The auxiliary knows that without their generous funding of this remarkable program, it would not take place.
It is very well received by the families, staff and patients who look forward to these special performances.
n Our gift shop always has interesting items for sale.
This year the clothing and handbags have been a great hit with everyone.
The superfluity shop has some great vintage clothing and special gifts for the hard to buy for person in one’s life.
n Peace Arch Hospital Auxiliary is always looking for volunteers.
If you would like to volunteer, there are applications at the Superfluity Shop (15163 Prospect Ave.), the gift shop and at the information desk in the hospital.
We can also be reached at www.pahas.ca
Felicity Matthews writes monthly on behalf of the Peace Arch Hospital Auxiliary.