Music as Medicine

By Bruce Geoffrion, VHC Medical Brigade Volunteer

I have the privilege to serve communion with my pastor to homebound members of our congregation. One of these folks is a man named Don Fahl. He is confined to a wheelchair as a result of a serious motorcycle accident that occurred about twenty-five years ago. Don is an accomplished guitarist who enjoyed giving lessons until issues related to the accident began compromising his muscle tone and made it unlikely he will ever play again. 

As we talked and began to get to know each other, he asked me about the VHC Medical Brigade, an organization I have volunteered with since 2001. I love talking about all the ways in which the Brigade has impacted the lives of our friends in Honduras. During one of these conversations, I noticed Don was distracted and quiet. I waited for him to tell me what he was thinking about. I learned that it has been a life-long dream of Don's to go on a mission trip to a country where he could teach guitar. Specifically, he wanted to teach an older person, a middle-aged person, and a child. Don quietly realized he'd never have that opportunity.

That night, I realized the Brigade just might be able to help. “What if we could get some guitars donated and shipped on our container to Honduras?” In stepped Sweetwater Sound in Ft. Wayne, Ind. where I live. I met with their director of public relations and told the compelling story of how a generous donation of three guitars would start the ball rolling. The very next day they called and said I could pick up two full-sized guitars and a three-quarter sized children's acoustic guitar. The next step was to contact Nelson Martinez, Operations Director in Honduras for the Brigade. He knew right away of a man there, in Comayagua, who teaches guitar and would love to take on this project. 

Well, I'm so happy to say that the guitars are safely packed aboard our recently loaded container that arrived in late August. Imagine how happy Don will be when he sees the pictures of his new students enjoying the guitars. 

I think medicine comes in many forms. For my gravely ill friend, his dream is one step closer.

Thanks to our friends associated with the VHC Medical Brigade who have inspired me in many ways over the years. This gift will be music as medicine, for Don, for the recipients and for me.