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12 December 2019

Homework in hospital inspires young patient to write and produce Christmas song

 

A young patient at Bristol Royal Hospital for Children has taken homework to the next level, having written and produced his own Christmas song, 'It's a hospital Christmas', whilst undergoing treatment for epilepsy.

Isaac Jackson, 12 years old, has staff, patients and visitors at Bristol children's hospital singing to his own tune, "It's a hospital Christmas". The catchy, fun and festive words, along with Isaac on keyboard, has brought the cheer whilst Isaac underwent treatment on the hospital's neurosciences ward.

Staying in hospital for a prolonged period, Isaac was sent homework from his teachers at Hele's School, Plympton, to complete during his stay. Isaac said: "My music teacher set me homework to write two verses and a chorus of a Christmas song. With the help of my mum, and the Grand Appeal music therapist Karen, we came up with 'It's a hospital Christmas'.

"Although I do music at school, it's not something I would do outside my lessons but I've realised its good fun and kept me busy. Karen gave me a keyboard to experiment with and it is because of my stay in hospital I was inspired.

"When we sent the song to my teacher they were amazed I had written the song, but also put the music to it. As a result, they shared it with the rest of the class and now the song is in all our heads."

Isaac was in the children's hospital for a stereotactic EEG, monitoring his seizures with wires surgically placed by neurosurgeon Michael Carter. Mr Carter noted Isaac's musical talents and requested the pleasure of collaborating on the song.

Jo Jackson, Isaac's mother said: "Like most children of Isaac's age, homework isn't really considered fun. However, this project was ideal for our stay in Bristol; keeping both Isaac and I entertained whilst he expressed himself through music.

"Karen the music therapist was brilliant on guitar and helped with the recording we sent to school. To also hear Isaac's surgeon Mr Carter wanted to join in with the song meant a lot to us both, and we hope the song remains a hospital favourite this Christmas and for many more years to come."




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