During this holiday season, as we approach the end of yet another year, we pause to reflect on what you have accomplished through Music Sweet Music (MSM) in 2014.

You, through your generosity and thoughtfulness, have touched the lives of 1,500 plus children in the Greater Tampa Bay region. The physiological and psychological stress that patients undergo during hospitalization can severely affect both emotional and physical well-being. Music therapy using patient-preferred music is beneficial in improving quality of life indicators such as anxiety, perception of the hospitalization or procedure, relaxation and stress in patients.

MSM has expanded its programs to include music therapy sessions for wounded veterans, seniors afflicted with memory loss, and the installation of our own “music as medicine” music therapy studio.  Additionally, we have continued and/or expanded music therapy sessions at PARC, Mannisota BUDS, All Children’s Hospital, St, Joseph’s Hospital for Children, Shriner’s Hospital for Children, and other venues.

Although many of the hospitalized children we serve have received treatment this year for life-threatening illness and disease, we constantly marvel at their resilient and indomitable spirit, their ability to smile and laugh when least expected or anticipated, and their willingness to provide for others even though they are suffering. Regardless of their condition, they truly embody the spirit of the holidays.

Your continued support allows us to continue our mission of providing music therapy sessions and the instruments used in music therapy to those in need. Partnering with you, we will continue our efforts to provide music therapy sessions and educate our community to the many benefits of music therapy.

Happy Holidays from our MSM “family” to yours!