Cancer Patients Turn Appreciative Hearts, Ears to N.C. Symphony's 'Treatment'

In this midst of difficult treatment for and recovery from cancer, many patients have learned that music can indeed be a tool in their healing.

Betty Lewis of Raleigh said she felt that classical music was a vital part of her treatment for breast cancer a few years ago.

The current cancer patients and cancer survivors and their guests felt the music wash over them in Meymandi Concert Hall. According to Music Director Grant Llewellyn, it's not just what the music might do for your body—it's where the music takes the mind.

"Music and the performing arts in general can take you outside of yourself," said Llewellyn. That's true, he said, whether the texture of the music is loud and raucous or smooth and soothing.

No one knows that better than violinist Suzanne Kelly, who's also a breast cancer survivor. She recognized many of the attendees from her treatment sessions at Rex Cancer Center.

Harpist Anita Burroughs-Price helped Kelly through one of her long, uncomfortable chemotherapy sessions.

Rex Healthcare understands the importance of music for patients. It has a music therapist on staff.