Max's story...
Max suffers from mild cerebral palsy and is autistic. He finds communicating difficult and changes in his routine can be terrifying.
Max was 8 when he first started coming for music therapy with us. He had some words but often refused to use them. To further block out contact he would often shout regularly and loudly and hold his hands constantly up to his ears. He could walk but insisted on being pushed around in a wheelchair. Because of all of this, he had until recently never attended a day of school.His first music therapy session was a challenge. He shouted and held his hands to his ears throughout. His therapist played the piano, but he refused to engage or connect with her in any way.
Gradually, he started to communicate with our therapist through the music and 6 months later he was playing in harmony with her – she on the piano, he on the drums. He soon began attending school once a week, eventually attending more regularly. He has stopped shouting and has begun to speak and walk. Music therapy has truly transformed his life.
Give the gift of music this year...
Nordoff Robbins music therapy helps children and adults struggling with many different challenges up and down the country. Please donate and help to transform the lives of vulnerable children like Max.
