My dad has suffered multiple strokes since 2001 and many years ago lost his speech. True to his strong character and vocabulary, the only words that were not lost were swear words. I always tell him, “Dad, if you practiced the rest of your vocabulary as much as you do these words, you’d be fine!”
If you’ve never suffered through a loved one losing their ability to speak, I hope you never have to – it is the absolute saddest thing I’ve ever experienced.
During my last trip home in February of this year, I created a Pandora station of Dean Martin/Frank Sinatra music (My dad was born in 1935) and put a pair of headphones on my dad. This is the first time I’d ever done this.
His eyes literally lit up, and he started singing and humming along.
It took everything in me to not break down and sob. It was an unbelievable moment.
My friend Jill shared this video on Facebook today, and it took me back to that day in February with my dad. This is exactly how my dad reacted.
I’ve always believed in the power of music and its healing nature. This is proof.
Related articles
- Alzheimer’s Patient ‘Awakens’ When Listening to Music From His Past (newsfeed.time.com)
About Vanessa
Great video Vanessa ! I do belive in the power of music.
Thank you, Bill.