Music's a powerful aid for memory
Marilyn Richter, 75, of Uniondale, has been a resident in A Holly Patterson Nursing Home in Uniondale since 2004. She enjoys listening to all types of music but says her favorite genre is country. Credit: Danielle Finkelstein
I have firsthand experience with the power of music ["iPod therapy, music for memories," Editorial, Jan. 25]. In 2006, my husband, Charles, was hospitalized with a brain disorder where most times he did not recognize me, our children or friends.
I decided to bring my portable CD player and a CD with two of his favorite songs: John C. Reilly's "Mister Cellophane," and Don McLean's "Vincent" (also known as "Starry, Starry Night"). When I put the earphones on him and selected the music, I couldn't believe how his eyes lit up. The smile on his face was awesome.
This is a day I will never forget. We lost him a month later, and whenever I play these songs (now on my iPod), I think of that wonderful day.
The nonprofit organization Music & Memory is doing a wonderful thing, and when I no longer need my iPod, I will donate it this worthy cause.
Rose Wachsmuth
Massapequa
Sarra Sounds Off, Season 3, Ep 3: Top football teams in action, fantasy update and plays of the week Gregg Sarra sounds off on the Northport and Half Hollow Hills East matchup, plus Tess Ferguson has an update on the high school fantasy football standings and Jared Vailuzzi has the plays of the week.
