In March 2022, our home in Denmark, WI, welcomed a precious soul—June M. Johnson, my beloved 96-year-old mother. She transitioned to our home from hospice care in Illinois, a place where Mom’s care team included a Social Worker, RN, CNA, Pastoral Care, and notably, a cherished Musical Therapist who resonated deeply with Mom’s lifelong love for music.
The transition process involved meticulous scheduling and finding the perfect fit for our loved one. We yearned for nothing but the best for our family, and as the weeks unfolded, a strong support system emerged. However, Unity Hospice didn’t initially offer therapeutic music, prompting us to inquire about its availability. They assured us they would explore options and keep us informed.
A call from the Unity team brought joyous news—they had found a couple willing to start a music program for Mom, making her their inaugural in-home audience! Enthusiastically, we embraced this opportunity, sharing the delightful news with our siblings in Illinois. Music would now fill our home for Mom—a truly wonderful development.
At this juncture in Mom’s health, meeting new people proved challenging. Anticipation filled the air as we awaited the arrival of our therapeutic music duo. Cass and John, the gifted musicians behind Good for the Soul Therapeutic Music, entered our home with warmth, acknowledging Mom as an individual, engaging her in conversation and allowing her to express her musical preferences. Learning about their recent marriage and impending parenthood, Mom became interactive and visibly at ease. Then, the music began.
Their voices, combined with heartfelt songs, created a transcendent experience. Witnessing Mom attempt to sing along to familiar tunes, I fought back tears of happiness. Our canine companion, Foster Gene, also joined the musical festivities, choosing to listen at Mom’s feet or at Cass’s, perhaps sweetly smitten.
Discovering Mom’s Lutheran background, Cass and John incorporated hymns from her faith, using her hymnal to guide them. The result was nothing short of wonderful.
Over the ensuing months, as Mom’s health declined, Cass and John remained steadfast, never missing an appointment. Their commitment meant the world to Mom and to our entire family. In her final weeks, with my sister Kristine by her side, we all had the privilege of experiencing the harmonious melodies that brought Mom solace.
On May 16, 2022, Mom passed away. Cass and John, true to their dedication, didn’t miss a single appointment. The day before Mom’s passing, despite being occupied with painting their baby’s room, they promptly arrived when I reached out for one last serenade. As “The Old Rugged Cross” filled the room, we sensed the peace enveloping Mom.
Now, with tearful gratitude, we reflect on the profound gift bestowed upon our family by Cass and John at Good for the Soul Therapeutic Music. Their music continues to resonate in our lives, nurturing connections as we keep in touch. Little Harmony, their baby, thrives in an environment filled with love and music.
God Bless! Kathie, Ron and Foster Gene Giuliani