Geoff’s story

After a massive heart attack put many of Geoff’s previous hobbies beyond his reach, music therapy drum sessions brought a welcome new rhythm to his life.

Since having a massive heart attack, six ventricular tachycardia (VT) storms and three procedures, Geoff has seen his life change dramatically. No longer is he able to enjoy the energetic lifestyle he once did. Illness has forced him to give up many of his favourite pastimes: gardening, DIY, and rebuilding steam engines at Havenstreet. 

Geoff’s heart attack and VT storms started last summer. “It was 4.30am and I woke up not feeling very well,” he says. “Sweat was pouring off me. My wife asked if she should call an ambulance but I said no. I sat out on the patio and went back to bed a bit later. I still didn’t feel well. At 8:30pm, I told my wife that she’d better ring 111. Then the paramedics were sent in and said I’d had a heart attack.”

This was just the start of a string of medical appointments, which culminated in the fitting of an implantable caridoverter defibrillator (ICD). Implanted in Geoff’s chest, this small device monitors his heart rhythm and delivers electric shocks if the heartbeat becomes irregular. While the ICD is doing its job, Geoff knows that his condition remains serious. This has led to a new outlook on life. “Do today what you want to do because you might not be here next week. Don’t put things off. Do it now!” he advises. 

Geoff was unable to do many of the hobbies he once enjoyed. He was interested to know more about our music therapy service at the Mountbatten Hospice.

“When I told my doctor I was going to play the drums, he said, ‘Don’t you think that would be a bit too strenuous for you?’ And I said, ‘We’ll find out!’”

For nearly a year, Geoff has enjoyed weekly sessions, playing drums while our music therapist, Fraser, plays piano.

“For an hour a week, I sit here and batter the drum kit – it’s a lot of fun and I don’t even think about why I’m here. All your cares and worries are gone. It’s a great way to meet other people as well. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” 

Geoff

Fraser has no doubt that music therapy is good for Geoff’s body, mind and soul.

“Music therapy is available for anyone under the hospice services,” Fraser says, “and it can be used for lots of different reasons. It can make us feel calmer, or more stimulated and alive. One of the really lovely, healthy things about music is that it enables us to live in the present. It is about seizing the moment!” 

Geoff couldn’t agree more. His advice to others: “Go for it!”