Healing can take many forms.
Our KNX Hero of the Week is helping pediatric patients heal through her music, and she's not letting Covid-19 hold her back.
Guitar. Piano. Drums. You name it, board certified music therapist Julia Summers uses them all, and her voice along with it.
"I'll meet with a child life specialist, and we will go over which patients will really benefit from me," explains Julia, about a typical workday at Northridge Hospital. "I have a cart of instruments that I push around. I will go and knock on doors to see who's available for a session."
Julia SummersKNX 1070 News handout
Julia says every session has its own purpose. Sometimes, it’s about reducing anxiety. Other times, it’s about improving the patient's mood. Most importantly, the music reduces pain.
Because of COVID-19, Julia is doing most of her healing right now through a virtual platform. "The patient has access to [their own] instruments. And, we can do all kinds of wonderful, musical experiences over the internet!"
And during a pandemic, every extra ounce of interaction can make a big difference.
"She works with some of our sickest patients," says Dr. Richard Kang, Medical Director of the Pediatric ICU at Northridge Hospital. "She really helps with bringing down the level of anxiety. The calmness and peace she brings is invaluable."
Dr. Kang reiterates that Julia's service is one-of-a-kind. "She comes up with these songs, and really connects with the patients almost immediately. The amount of talent she has, [she's] just amazing to watch."
Julia Summers is our KNX Hero of the Week!
As a parent herself, she says helping others through music is something she's meant to do. "Often times, the kids are being themselves again. And it’s really exciting to see as a parent - seeing your child perk up and light up, and be the kid that you know that they are."
KNX Heroes is brought to you by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
If you know someone who is inspirational, motivational, life-changing or life-saving, nominate them as a future KNX hero at https://knxnews.radio.com/nominate
You can also send an email directly to the host of KNX Hero of the Week - Heather Jordan - to heroes@KNX1070.com
