September 5, 2009

To whom it may concern,

Seemingly out of the blue, Don Ritter and John Catt contacted The Children’s Hospital in Colorado because they wanted to donate instruments to us to utilize with the kids who are in the hospital for an extended period. They realize the important, healing and restorative role music plays in their own lives and wanted to share that knowledge with our kids. After the initial contact it took some time for them to find their way through the maze of employees and get connected with me. They were so tenacious and driven in their need to give, continually being patient with the process as I decided what instruments we needed and tried to figure out how to manage such a lovely and generous gift.

In addition to what they have given to our hospital, they also have this wonderful program where, if a child realizes that they really get something healing and positive out of playing a particular instrument and don’t own one, then they can contact Blue Star to be given their own instrument to play at home. In July, John came to visit and brought with him eight electric guitars and a bass guitar, an equal number of amps, and five electronic keyboards. These instruments have been used with a variety of medically-ill patients as well as on the Inpatient and Day Treatment psychiatric units. And I personally know of at least three patients who have benefited from getting their own instruments to play at home.

I haven’t felt very articulate as I write this, as it has been difficult for me to put into words the role this organization has begun to play here at The Children’s Hospital. As a music therapist, I understand the healing role that music plays in people’s everyday lives. It is truly a wonderful thing for these children to be able to express themselves musically while here at the hospital, and to then be able to continue that mode of healing at home. The Blue Star Connection has provided, and hopefully will be able to continue to provide, a special opportunity for these brave and beautiful children.

Thanks so much for this chance to tell you about this great organization. Please do not hesitate to contact me for any reason.

Kind Regards,

Debra J. Larson, MA, MT-BC
Music Therapist
Ponzio Creative Arts Therapy Program
720-777-4905
larson.debra@tchden.org