Music has the power to heal, comfort, and uplift, even in the most challenging moments of life. For Chris and his mum, Marianne, music became a lifeline during a long and difficult journey through illness, and its impact continues to resonate in their lives today.

Chris was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL) at the age of 19. It was an overwhelming diagnosis for someone so young, and the path that lay ahead was anything but easy. But even through the darkest days of treatment, there was a spark of hope—Tuesdays. Every fortnight, OPUS Music CIC visited Chris on the ward at Leicester Children’s Hospital, bringing with them an opportunity to make music, to express emotions, and to escape the world of medical interventions, if only for a little while.

“OPUS were a truly wonderful support to Chris when on the Ward,” says Marianne. “Through his darkest days in treatment, Tuesdays were something to look forward to, and they really did make a difference to his mental health.”

Music became more than just a distraction for Chris. It was a source of joy and connection, a way to channel his creativity during a time when much of his life felt out of control. Every session was a collaborative experience, with Chris and Marianne making music together alongside the OPUS musicians. These moments were filled with laughter, creativity, and expression—things that can often feel out of reach in a hospital environment.

Even the hospital staff, witnessing the transformation music could bring, were keen to get involved. They would continue making music with Chris in OPUS’s absence, helping to maintain the sense of joy and connection beyond the sessions. Part of OPUS Music CIC’s mission is to enable more healthcare staff to incorporate music into their everyday care of patients—benefiting not just the patients and families but creating a calming and connected atmosphere for the staff, too.

“As you can see in the pictures, his face says it all,” Marianne adds.

Those pictures capture not just a young man in treatment, but a young man rediscovering joy and a sense of purpose, even amidst the toughest of challenges. For Chris, those music sessions weren’t just about surviving—they were about thriving.

Chris is now nearly three years in remission, but his journey with music didn’t stop when he left the hospital. The creativity he nurtured during his time in treatment continues to inspire him today. He has carried that musical spark into his life, exploring performance and music-making beyond the walls of the hospital.

“We first met Chris and Marianne at Leicester Children’s Hospital, and we were instantly struck by Chris’s enthusiasm and creativity. It was an honour to make music with him, and we are thrilled to see that his passion for creativity has flourished.” – Nick Cutts, CEO, OPUS Music CIC

Music, as we’ve seen in Chris’s story, doesn’t just heal in the moment. It plants a seed for something deeper—a long-lasting boost to health and well-being that continues to grow even after treatment ends. It strengthens the bond between families and offers a way to communicate and connect when words are not enough.

At OPUS Music CIC, we believe in the power of music to make a difference in the lives of young people and their families. Chris’s story is just one example of how music can help carry people through the most difficult times and continue to bring light, joy, and well-being long after.

We are proud to have been part of Chris’s journey, and we look forward to continuing to support more people, like Chris, on their path to healing and beyond.