BIANCA, DANNY, AVA AND BABY ARI
Ari was born with a rare genetic disease and was not expected to survive her first day of life. She didn’t want to eat; she couldn’t swallow. At three weeks of age, Ari’s parents, Bianca and Danny, brought her home from the hospital, planning to spend the short time that they would have together as a family. Ever since Ari left the hospital, The Elizabeth Hospice has been caring for her and her family. Our Pediatric Team works in concert with Ari’s pediatrician and specialists to relieve her symptoms and manage her pain. Through education and support programs, we provide Bianca and Danny with the tools to confidently care for their child at home. The services provided by The Elizabeth Hospice go beyond medical care to providing emotional support for the entire family through programs like music therapy. “Music therapy is designed to address a patient’s physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs,” said Michelle Goldbach, Director of Pediatric and Palliative Care for The Elizabeth Hospice. “Ari may lack the muscle strength to sit up by herself but she can respond to music.”
One of the other benefits of these music therapy sessions is that they are an activity that the family can enjoy together. Ari’s big sister, Ava, helps her shake a tiny maraca, pull on colorful ribbons and reach over her head to grab the tambourine. “The care that our family receives from The Elizabeth Hospice is amazing,” said Bianca. “Everyone is so kind and it’s comforting to know that we have their support.” Ari has come a long way over the past eight months. At first it was hard for her to remain awake during the music therapy session. Now she squeals with laughter when she hears the music, kicks her feet and reaches out to touch the instruments. Music therapy is helping her increase her strength, mobility and motor skills.
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