Music Therapy and Reef Dancing during Chemotherapy

Reef was diagnosed with AML Leukaemia in March 2011 (8 mths old). He also has Down syndrome. Since birth, Reef has been linked to Early Intervention services, and has had Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy and his ECDP Playgroup. Since being hospitalised, he's also been exposed to Music Therapy with thanks to Red Kite, an organisation to help and support children with cancer and their families. I can not express enough how much I believe Music Therapy, and the use of Music in conjunction with his physical activities has helped our son. I notice a clear improvement in Reef's stamina and attention when there is music present as opposed to if it's quiet and we are doing the same standing and movement activities.

Reef was hooked up to chemotherapy for 5 days before this clip was taken (of a 7 day continuous IV cycle in the intensification round) and he was also a little tired. Even so, you can see he was clearly enjoying our lovely Music Therapist (Belinda's) singing... although Mum needs some lessons in keeping the beat with the drum lol.

Reef also has a facebook page..... Baby Reef - Leukaemia Fundraiser.

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[BabyReef1]

@HeatherandChris7 Hi, thanks so much for your kind words and support.... I see you are his number one fan! This is actually a Music Therapy session. He has OT and PT aside from this. Unfortunately Music Therapy is a relatively new concept as I've been advised, and as yet is not available in Mackay as part of the Disability Services Reef has access to. We do also have Music Therapy in conjunction with OT, PT and Speech at times. IE- During Speech we encourage turn taking and signing etc

[HeatherandChris7]

Go Reefy!!!! Look at him dance! Is that his OT, PT? Does she always use music in therapy? I really love this idea, and I can easily see that it helps Reef! We just adore him. (Hugz)