Ray’s story

Music helped Ray face his cancer diagnosis

Ray was a former prison worker in his mid-60s. In 2022, he was diagnosed with incurable stomach cancer. After his diagnosis, Ray didn’t know how much time he had left and he faced his situation with bravery. He sadly passed away in summer of 2024.

Music and songwriting helped Ray to come to terms with his diagnosis, reflect on his life and express how he felt.

Ray’s journey with music therapy started at Mountbatten Hospice. As a passionate, self-taught guitarist and songwriter already, Ray attended the Community Choir we host at the Hospice. There, he met music therapist Fraser, who leads the Choir.

Ray had been passionate about music for his whole life. But it was when faced with a cancer diagnosis that music therapy was able to help him.

In music therapy, Ray worked with Fraser on a song called ‘If I could turn the clock back’. In 2023, Ray was able to play the song with Mark King, the bassist from Level 42. Mark said: “The way it actually turned out, with the drums and with Fraser, and me, and Mark on his bass was just absolutely amazing. I absolutely loved it.”

My music sessions with Fraser have been an absolute godsend. I always feel uplifted. It just makes you feel good.

Ray

During their time in music therapy together, Ray’s music therapist Fraser said: “Ray’s motivation to make music is high. He’s a perfect example of how music can bring meaning for those facing life-limiting illness. And help them to optimise their precious, remaining time”.

Music therapy became the highlight of Ray’s week as he navigated his diagnosis. From songwriting to even performing at a Cabaret Evening at the Hospice, music helped to lift Ray’s confidence and to celebrate his creativity.

Please note that Ray is the copyright holder of ‘If I could turn back the clock’.