Collaboration Will Support Increased Research and Funding for Children’s Music Therapy

Maryville University’s Kids Rock Cancer program is pleased to announce their new collaboration with the Mayo Clinic, marking the first time Maryville University and Mayo Clinic have worked together. Crystal Weaver, KRC’s Director of Music Therapy, reports that the innovative research collaboration between the two organizations will explore the benefits of therapeutic songwriting for children diagnosed with cancer. The collaboration will involve a series of research studies funded by the Mayo Clinic, with research participants (typically children ages 12-18).

“We are thrilled to be working with Mayo Clinic and to have such an increase in support and resources for Kids Rock Cancer,” says Weaver. “The work Kids Rock Cancer does is so important, and through this collaboration, we have a lot of wonderful opportunities ahead of us.”

Collaboration between Maryville University and the Mayo Clinic has already resulted in one upcoming publication in the Journal of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nursing. The publication is entitled “Music Played a Role in Saving My Life and Getting Me Through All of This: A Descriptive Qualitative Study of Hope in Adolescents and Young Adults Living with Advanced Cancer.” Additionally, an abstract by Kids Rock Cancer and Mayo Clinic was featured in a podium presentation at the 6th Annual Maruzza International Congress on Pediatric Palliative Care in Rome, Italy, earlier in the semester. 

All Kids Rock Cancer music therapy services are provided to patients for free, thanks to the continued support and generosity of various donors and community partners. To learn more about KRC and show your support, visit KidsRockCancer.org.

About Kids Rock Cancer

Kids Rock Cancer, a program of Maryville University, uses the power of music therapy to help families cope with a cancer or blood disorder diagnosis. The program provides certified music therapists to help children, siblings and parents use music and songwriting as a therapeutic vehicle for self-expression. A copy of their media kit can be found here.