Stroke is one of Australia’s biggest killers and a leading cause of disability. One in six people will have a stroke in their lifetime and distressingly, 30 per cent of them are under 60 years old.
In May 2016, young mother of three, Margaret, woke up with strange tingling sensations in her body. She had suffered a stroke which affected her ability to walk, use her arms, and speak clearly.
“I was terrified. My family and I were so confused, this doesn’t happen to younger people – does it?”
Margaret is currently undergoing rehabilitation, including Music Therapy, at The Royal Melbourne Hospital.
Neuroscience investigations show that music improves overall brain function and that the brain processes singing differently to speech. Often people who cannot speak can still sing and music therapy can help people like Margaret speak more clearly, motivate their movement, and uplift their spirit.
The Royal Melbourne Hospital cares for more than 800 stroke patients a year. Our award winning Music Therapy Service uses specialised singing techniques to help patients find new pathways to recovery.
“Thank you for singing with my mum and helping her get better”, said Margaret’s 5 year old daughter, Suzanna.
By purchasing a Home Lottery ticket you are supporting stroke patients at The Royal Melbourne Hospital and helping people like Margaret find their voice.