Emmie is six years old and has Down’s Syndrome. Growing up, Emmie struggled with a lot of things other kids don’t usually need to worry about.
After having major heart surgery, Emmie developed severe separation anxiety. But music therapy has changed Emmie into “a totally different child”.
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A note from Emmie's mum
Today, I’m going to tell you her story and ask you to donate to Nordoff and Robbins, to help other children like Emmie. Just £30 could help towards the cost of a music therapy session.
Emmie is six years old and was born with Down’s Syndrome. It came as a shock to us because there were no signs to prepare us throughout my pregnancy. We didn’t know the first thing about Down’s Syndrome, but we knew we had to make sure she had everything she needed.
We loved Emmie so much from the moment she was born. She had a cheeky smile, and as she got older, we were always in awe of how she saw the best in everyone. Emmie brought a special light into our lives as a family.
But growing up, Emmie struggled with a lot of things other kids don’t usually need to worry about. When she was four months old, she had to have major surgery on her heart to save her life. Emmie’s days were taken over by medical appointments and hospital visits. It was hard for Emmie to just be a child.
As time went on, Emmie developed severe separation anxiety, and would cry every morning when I dropped her off at school. She was very shy, and never had the confidence to try new things or face new challenges like meeting people, making friends and getting involved in activities. Although we tried to support and encourage Emmie, she was missing out on important experiences.
Life was really hard for Emmie, and it took a toll on the family, too. We just wanted to help Emmie, but we didn’t really know how.
When Emmie was four, her teacher told us about music therapy. We didn’t know what music therapy was, or how it could help Emmie. But we were willing to try anything to help Emmie reach her full potential, and really shine like the little star we know she is. We wanted to see that cheeky smile again.
Then Nicky, a Nordoff and Robbins music therapist, came into Emmie’s life. Together, they created a safe space where Emmie could find her independence and feel sure of herself.
“Since having music therapy, Emmie is a totally different child. She’s confident and independent. Emmie now performs to everyone, and on a daily basis we watch her sing, dance and clap! Music therapy has changed her. It’s amazing.
Emmie has been lucky to have music therapy through her school. But there are hundreds of other children in the UK, just like Emmie, who desperately need access to music therapy. I know times are hard and we’re in a cost of living crisis, but every donation can help, no matter how big or small.
– Lauren, Emmie’s mum
