Royal Marsden Hospital, Teenage Cancer Unit

Witnessing the value of music to our patients has been an eye-opening experience and a daily reminder of the importance of taking a truly multi-disciplinary approach to supporting them.

The Royal Marsden Hospital, Teenage Cancer Unit

The Teenage Cancer Unit at The Royal Marsden Hospital is a purpose-built facility for teenagers and young adults. It provides both inpatient and day care for people aged between 16 and 24 years old. Although it is part of the main hospital, provides a self-contained environment for the young people who attend.

Our partnership began in 2017. Music therapy has provided patients with an outlet for self-expression and opportunities to engage with each other in a fun and enjoyable space.

The benefit of music to our patients is multifaceted. For some of our young people who struggle to express and make sense of the emotions they face during their treatment journey, music can be a means for them to find an outlet for these.

One patient at the hospital had aspirations of becoming a professional singer learned that she may never be able to sing again post-surgery. This news was clearly very upsetting. Showing incredible determination, she took part in music therapy sessions and, one year later, gave a live singing performance. This brought joy to herself, her family and friends and the clinicians who had been a part of her journey.

Many aspects of a young person’s treatment can evoke anxiety. Being able to play or listen to music can help them to regulate how they are feeling and find a sense of calm.

At the Teenage Cancer Unit at The Royal Marsden Hospital, patients are able to grow in confidence through music therapy. During difficult times, it can serve as a mood booster, something to look forward to and a reason to leave the hospital room. 

We produced this story in partnership with The Royal Marsden Hospital, Teenage Cancer Unit.