Music strikes a chord for children with cancer

Eighteen families from across four states, all facing the challenge of childhood cancer, tuned out from their cares, and rocked out to the classics during Redkite’s first online national music session.

The free, hour-long event starred Redkite-funded music therapist, Matt Ralph from the Sydney Children’s Hospital on guitar and Redkite Ambassador, Harry Cunningham from the Sydney Swans as backup vocalist. The duo provided some much-needed stress-relief for children and parents alike.

The song list included renditions of ‘Twinkle, twinkle, little star’, ‘The wheels on the bus’, ‘Five little speckled frogs’ and the Wiggles’ smash hit, ‘Hot potato’.

“Music therapy gives children and young people an enjoyable, supportive and creative environment where they can express themselves. It helps them to regain a sense of control and stimulate important areas of growth and development.

“It was amazing to see their smiles as they sang along. Their mood instantly changed,” Harry said.

Redkite’s CEO, Monique Keighery, said children with cancer and their families were the unseen collateral damage of COVID-19. 

“We’re hearing from families from all walks of life who are now experiencing unprecedented levels of distress caused by COVID-19, with the life of their immunocompromised child under greater threat than ever before.

“Music is a great stress reliver and it has always helped bring people together. Our online music session was just another way we’re supporting our families who can’t be forgotten and left to cope alone,” Ms Keighery said.