The Pictou Palliative Care Society hosts a support group through the generous help of Trinity United Church who lends us use of their accessible Mary Walsh Room.  

Members of PALS are able to talk in a safe space and share what sometimes they can’t say at home. Often, guest speakers are invited to advise on various topics; such as planning a funeral, needed tax information, the importance of a flu shot, we even discuss how to plan for a hurricane… Together, we have had some very open and hard conversations. On the lighter side we host terrific musicans who provide us with their talents and sometime funny tales. Our volunteers always have the coffee brewed, the tea pot on, a lite snack prepared, and there is always someone to greet you outside at the door. We share laughter, and most of all, friendship.

Our members continue to inspire each of us and we have been humbled by their strength and resilience.

Our cozy space in the Mary Walsh Room at Trinity Church in New Glasgow.

Music therapy is a non-pharmacological therapy to address issues of both physical and mental health. Music is widely known to affect mood, to lift up or soothe your spirits; but it can also stimulate parts of the brain related to memory and concentration.

Kelsey MacDonald — an Accredited Music Therapist — is currently providing music therapy services at the Aberdeen Hospital. She works with numerous groups of patients in palliative care, geriatrics, and pediatric rehabilitation. She also leads community legacy work and is part of several community groups, like our Society.

Punctuation matters, even in music. Little things make all the difference — like making musical therapy available near the end of life.