Suzi Quatro is supporting The Children’s Trust in the launch of a charity shop music and memorabilia amnesty this month, part of an initiative to raise money for children undergoing specialist rehabilitation following a brain injury.
Quatro, who has sold over 50 million albums worldwide, is appealing to the public to donate music related items to the charity’s shops, items can include anything from records and CDs to band t-shirts and instruments.
The amnesty, which will run until Christmas, forms part of The Extraordinary Music Box Appeal, highlighting the importance of music to children having rehabilitation after a serious accident or illness, something the singer-songwriter feels passionately about.
Suzi explained: “Music plays such a crucial role in everyday lives and it’s fantastic to hear how it can motivate and inspire children with brain injury. I was really moved by Jadae’s story of recovery and yet surprised that music therapy, and many of the fun activities The Children’s Trust provides, are completely reliant on donations.
“I want to encourage as many people as possible to donate their music and memorabilia to The Children’s Trust charity shops, so that it can be sold to help make a difference to children’s lives.”
Julie Beames, head of charity shops at The Children’s Trust, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled that Suzi is supporting our appeal. The number of items donated to charity shops in general has declined in recent years, yet this support is vital.
“Our customers generosity, whether donating items or making purchases, makes a huge difference to the children we support. Music is such a powerful tool to help motivate children, and encourage them through rehabilitation in a fun and positive way, and we think that’s something everyone will relate to.”
Jadae’s story
Jadae (ABOVE) was seven years old when she was involved in a serious road accident that left her unable to move or communicate.
Three months after the accident, Jadae moved to The Children’s Trust for specialist rehabilitation to relearn the skills she had lost. Music, fun and play were Jadae’s most powerful motivators and staff at The Children’s Trust ensured this was an integral part of her therapy.
Jadae’s mum Caroline explained: “Singing helped Jadae with her breathing, which then helps with her talking. And it lifted her spirits. She was making great progress and started saying words. I was sat at the table with her and I said, ‘can you say Caroline?’ and she did! Oh my God, she did! I was literally crying with happiness hearing her.”
Music helped Jadae focus on what she could do, rather than what she couldn’t. It was a fantastic motivator. When she returned home Jadae was able to sing, hold herself up and make progress towards walking independently once again.
To make a donation or find your nearest shop, visit www.thechildrenstrust.org.uk
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