Kids Rock Cancer<\/a> is recognized among organizations working to address problems, develop initiatives, or make lasting improvements that result in stronger, more stable communities.<\/p>\n\u201cKids Rock Cancer is incredibly honored to be recognized by Focus St. Louis\u00a0with a What\u2019s Right with the Region Award,\u201d said Liz Haynes, director of special programs for Ä¢¹½´«Ã½. \u201cThis\u00a0recognition\u00a0speaks to the dedicated work of\u00a0our Kids Rock Cancer\u00a0music therapists.\u00a0It also comes at an\u00a0exciting time in the program\u2019s history,\u00a0as we recently completed a session with our 1,000th Kids Rock Cancer \u2018rock star.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n
Kids Rock Cancer is a music therapy program designed to help children cope with the unique emotional challenges that accompany a diagnosis of cancer and other blood disorders. Through the healing power of music therapy, Kids Rock Cancer helps children combat feelings of anxiety, depression and helplessness. Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ 800 original songs have been written and produced in pediatric hospitals, cancer support centers and summer camps throughout the St. Louis area.<\/p>\n
Working with a music therapist, children participating in the Kids Rock Cancer program write about whatever topic they choose. Their lyrics are put to music and they record their own voice on a CD to take home. Writing and listening to these songs help children make sense of what is happening to them, express fears, frustrations and hope, and just have fun.<\/p>\n
The program also provides hands-on learning for students in Ä¢¹½´«Ã½\u2019s music therapy program. In creating opportunities for students to engage in practical learning experiences, Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ seeks to respond to needs in the St. Louis community, providing a win-win for graduates and the region. Kids Rock Cancer is one the University\u2019s most successful and impactful community connections.<\/p>\n
More recently, Kids Rock Cancer has expanded to help kids whose family members are battling cancer. These children may have trouble processing the impact of life-changing events like cancer diagnosis and treatment. Creating a story through music helps not only the kids but the entire family understand one another\u2019s feelings and concerns.<\/p>\n