Holiday cheer is coming to the Carrie Tingley Hospital Foundation thanks to a special musical team at the University of New Mexico.
Speech and Hearing Services Researcher and Associate Professor Jessica Richardson is bringing the Neurochoir to perform at the Festival of Trees.
The annual fundraiser invites over 10,000 people over the course of three days to raise money for the hospital and the children inside.
Richardson said it’s also a time to recognize what’s special about the Neurochoir, which is composed of singers recovering from brain injuries.
“It is wonderful to know that we are contributing to a great cause while also spreading joy and raising awareness about different brain injuries and diseases, such as stroke, TBI, dementia, Parkinson's disease, and more,” Richardson said.
The Neurochoir has been instrumental in uniting these typically isolated recovering patients to provide joy to the community since 2016.
It’s a beautiful experience and performance– something Richardson says you can’t miss.
“Some of our members may have difficulty speaking clearly, finding words, walking, or remembering, but they are able to come together to join their voices in song,” she said.
The UNM Neurochoir is also joining forces with the Corrales Neurochoir, led by Nicole Gallegos. Each are excited to bring back veteran singers, and introduce new performers to the community,
“Many of our choir members have been with us since the beginning - since 2016 they have been inspiring and educating the community,” Richardson said. “For some new choir members, this will be their first performance, and they are excited about this opportunity.”
Enjoy the Neurochoirs spreading holiday cheer at the ABQ Uptown Marriott, during the Festival of Trees on Saturday, Nov. 26 at 2 p.m. There could be a special joint appearance with the jolly man in a big red suit.
Learn more about these performances and watch previous ones at UNM Neurochoir or at Corrales Voice and Speech Therapy. Individuals can also donate to the choir through the UNM Fund.