June 29, 2020
Meet Sheldon. He is 26 years old and has been supported by St.Amant in the Community Residential Program for nearly eight years. Sheldon loves time with his family, music, reading stories, and movies. He dislikes being around too many people or having his favourite activities interrupted. One of his most recent joys is participating in music therapy, and thanks to generous donor support, he has many more sessions ahead of him.
Initially, his family and support team wasn’t sure if he would enjoy music therapy but they have all been surprised at how different his days are when he participates. Angela, a member of his support staff, says “He took to it like a duck to water. He’s so much happier, brighter, peaceful. Just knowing he’s got a session coming up that afternoon means he approaches his day with zest, and afterwards his evening is filled with smiles.”
These sessions were originally held in person, but thankfully, they have been adapted to virtual sessions since the COVID-19 restrictions were put in place. If he misses one week, it is evident to his team. “Storm clouds that might be looming for him have a bit more impact and make things tougher for him” recalls Angela.
It recently came to light that, while he took great joy in participating in these sessions, the cost had drained his savings significantly. It had become such a concern that reducing or eliminating the sessions was being considered. That is… until the generosity of our donors came to the rescue!
It’s abundantly clear to all that know him how much he gains from music therapy. His family and support team are all thankful for the ability to commit to a full year of sessions for him, made possible by donor support. “We always knew he had music in his heart, but the way he moves with the music, the clear excitement while participating, it’s like seeing a whole other person.”
From Sheldon and his team: “THANK YOU!”
