Galloway Libby NS

2006  Home has been Richland Washington since 1973...Married to Bob, with two sons and two foster children.  Recently retired instructor at Columbia Basin College.  Currently pianist/organist/harpist for Washington East Opera, Columbia Basin College summer theater productions, Shalom United Church of Christ, Whitman College, Consort Columbia Vocal Ensemble, Mid Columbia Symphony, recitalists, and what ever other fun comes along.  Basically just 'plays around.'  Newest passion--bedside harp playing in local hospital and hospice.

2005  Traveling Music
The light music wafts and drifts through the hallways of Kadlec Medical Center.  As it first floats your way, it is something you might be only imagining, or has someone wound a music box?

Every Wednesday, Libby Watrous wanders the halls of the Medical Center Playing a small harp, which weighs less than 10 pounds, strapped to her shoulder bringing the soft, soothing music to patients, guest and staff alike.

'The harp music always brings a smile; it is magical that way,' said Watrous.  'It has such a soothing tone.'

Watrous began bringing her music to Kadlec in September.  She moves through the halls of the hospital from the Birth Center to Critical Care.  'I just walk through the halls, and if someone invites me into their room I am pleased to go in.  I may also just stand outside a patient's room, playing,' she said.

She frequently can be heard asking 'What would you like to hear?'  always welcoming music request.  Music therapy has been a part of Kadlec for over a year when a Grand Piano in the new hospital lobby began being played by talented volunteers.  The program is part of Kadlec's
Planetree approach to patient-centered care.  In addition to music therapy, other programs include massage therapy and pet therapy.  

'The music draws out a response from people.  We don't require anything from them; it is a very passive, relaxing response.'  she said, as she moves through the halls as gently as her music.

Watrous sees that her music can even become more beneficial to patients.  'I am trying to learn to be more responsive to a patient's pain or anxiety.  I am trying to be even more sensitive to their needs and have my music responsive to them.'  Pacesetter published by Kadlec Medical Center.

Posted By: NS Administrator - 02-20-2016
Views: 1207