The Healing Power of Music:
The Story of Emily SaliersMusic has the ability to evoke emotions, transport us to different worlds, and even heal our wounds.
Emily Saliers, of the folk duo Indigo Girls, experienced this firsthand when she was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer in 2014.
Saliers, known for her angelic vocals and poignant lyrics, navigated the challenges of her diagnosis with the support of her music.
She found solace in composing and performing, using her songs as a way to express her fears, hopes, and experiences.
During her treatment, Saliers noticed that music had a profound impact on her physical and emotional well-being.
It helped reduce her stress, alleviate her pain, and boost her spirits.
She realized that music was not merely a form of entertainment but a powerful therapeutic tool.
Inspired by her own healing journey, Saliers partnered with the non-profit organization CancerCare to launch the Indigo Girls Music for Change Fund.
The fund provides grants to musicians and music therapists who use music to support individuals facing cancer.
Through the Indigo Girls Music for Change Fund, Saliers has supported numerous initiatives, including music therapy programs in hospitals, community music groups for cancer survivors, and songwriting workshops for patients and their loved ones.
One of the beneficiaries of the fund is Ashley Kurth, a breast cancer survivor who participated in a songwriting workshop led by Saliers.
Kurth found the workshop to be transformative, allowing her to express her feelings and connect with others who understood her experiences.
“Music gave me a voice when I felt like I had none,” said Kurth.
“It helped me process my emotions and find a way to move forward.
“Studies have shown that music therapy can have a variety of positive effects on cancer patients, including reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and enhancing mood.
It can also help patients cope with the side effects of treatment, such as pain and fatigue.
The Indigo Girls Music for Change Fund has become a testament to the transformative power of music.
Through her own journey and her support for others, Emily Saliers has demonstrated that music is not just a form of entertainment but a lifeline for those facing adversity.

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