New Choir Empowers Saint John Cancer Patients and Caregivers

A new choir in Saint John, called Healing Voices, aims to provide a supportive community for cancer patients and their caregivers. Founded by Kelly Galbraith, a former CBC Music producer, the choir is designed for individuals currently battling cancer, those who have survived it, and their supporters. The first rehearsal is scheduled for Saturday, leading up to a concert on February 15, 2024, at St. Mark’s United Church. All proceeds from the concert will benefit the Horizon Health Network’s Stay Strong program.

For Samantha Keays, a 29-year-old breast cancer patient, music has played a crucial role in her healing process. After receiving her diagnosis, Keays sought out activities that could help her cope. “Unless you’ve actually gone through it … it’s different,” she explained. The opportunity to join Healing Voices resonated deeply with her, as it connects her with people who understand her journey.

The concept for Healing Voices emerged following Galbraith’s own cancer diagnosis in 2022. A late-night revelation led her to initiate the choir, which quickly gained traction after she posted flyers at the Saint John Regional Hospital and shared news on social media. The response was overwhelming, with over 80 people signing up before the first rehearsal.

Galbraith highlights the unique benefits of singing in a choir. “Your heartbeats line up, you breathe deeper … you have to listen to each other, and it’s creating that bond,” she stated. The choir will perform songs with themes of support and friendship, including Bridge Over Troubled Water and Lean on Me. “The whole theme is friendship,” she added. “You can’t do this on your own.”

One of the choir members, Heather Purcell, was diagnosed with ovarian and endometrial cancer last year. She learned about Healing Voices from a fellow member of another choir. “When you’re going through something like this, like cancer … it’s so comforting to have some community around it,” she shared. Purcell has found solace in music, and she believes that joining this new choir will enhance her emotional experience.

Another participant, Olivia Donovan, is the caregiver for her husband, Alvin, who has been battling pancreatic cancer for the past 20 months. Donovan feels the importance of connecting with others facing similar challenges. “You sort of belong to a club you don’t want to belong to when someone close to you has been diagnosed with cancer,” she remarked, emphasizing the supportive network that Healing Voices fosters.

The choir’s initiative not only aims to provide musical enjoyment but also to create a space where individuals can share their experiences. Galbraith is committed to ensuring that anyone interested can join, regardless of their musical background. The choir welcomes both newcomers and seasoned singers alike.

In an environment often filled with isolation and fear, Healing Voices stands as a beacon of hope. By uniting individuals through the power of music, it offers a platform for healing, connection, and shared understanding. The upcoming concert on February 15 promises to be a celebration of resilience and community, inviting all to witness the strength found in togetherness.