I know just what you mean, Genie. Very often an elderly patient will remember songs more easily than names or events. There's something about music that hits us at the most basic level. Music is healing and calming and the good work we all do in these circumstances is valued and appreciated. I found, in working with very young patients, that music so often was useful for pain management and socialization. Some of the things I did at Shriners seem almost fantastic, now. I taught a nine year old to play the guitar. Oh, did I forget to mention that he had been born without arms? I have a videotape of one of his lessons. I play it every time I think that I haven't accomplished much in my life. I wish that other folksingers could get into this rewarding field. It gives one a special audience and a new perspective.

Mike