I can’t say enough good things about the Logie family who comes so often to play for Vernon. It’s been about a year since we met them, and they have truly ministered to Vernon and the rest of the family. I am blown away how those kids are with each other and others in the world. They all appreciate the value of serving others: the homeless, the elderly, the sick and disabled. They have been a family of angels to us, and I am so grateful and honored that they drive so far so often just to give Vernon some musical peace.  We have known since even deep in his coma, that he resonates with live music, and today reminded me of this again.

When Justine and I arrived at Mesa Verde this afternoon, Vernon was sleeping. Perhaps I was too quick to wake him up and get him outside because he suddenly became terribly impatient waiting for a CNA to move him to his geri-chair. He can have strong mood swings and lash out in anger—as we know, it’s a typical symptom of TBI. But today, it was difficult to shake him out of it. I don’t know if his arm is bothering him or what causes these things. When I asked him, he told me he didn’t know, it just comes over him and then he can’t help it. It’s especially difficult when I have Justine with me and he starts yelling and swearing. But this is nothing new, its just that he couldn’t shake it today.

However…when the Logie family arrived and started playing music under the shade of the big umbrella,  he was able to finally relax and enjoy. He wasn’t very talkative, he seemed especially tired, but he was no longer strung up in his anger and impatience. It was like two different personalities, instead of just sides of his personality. So, do I believe in the healing power of music? Absolutely…it’s proving itself yet again.

At one point, were joined by a couple of other ladies who requested Amazing Grace. The more, the merrier indeed! (I don’t have a video of my own, so this one is one from Susan’s phone.)

A few of the other locals who benefited from the music. For some reason, most of the mobile patients prefer to stay inside and play Bingo every Sunday when there is a free concert out on the patio. But there are always a few stragglers who get to enjoy it!