At the Joe Andruzzi Foundation, we’ve long believed in the power of compassion and creativity to lift the human spirit. Recent research from Maryville University’s Kids Rock Cancer (KRC) program, in collaboration with the Mayo Clinic, echoes that belief. It shows that music therapy can offer meaningful relief for cancer patients, especially children.
Their newly published study, “Music Played a Role in Saving My Life and Getting Me Through All of This,” featured in the Journal of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nursing, reveals that music therapy not only helps young patients cope with the emotional toll of treatment, but also provides a safe and creative outlet for processing difficult emotions.
“Music is an incredible outlet for processing negative emotions, and our data shows even a few short music therapy sessions can make a huge difference,” says Crystal Weaver, Director of Music Therapy at KRC.
These findings are part of a growing body of global research underscoring the benefits of music therapy for cancer patients of all ages. Evidence suggests music therapy can ease anxiety, depression, pain, and fatigue, while also positively impacting heart rate and blood pressure.
