Dr. O. Carl Simonton, founder of the Simonton Cancer Center in Los Angeles, invited me to introduce the Piano Logic program to a small group of cancer patients at a retreat center in Montecito. Dr. Simonton is a board certified radiation oncologist and has been a leader in the field of psychological issues facing cancer patients, conducting programs based on emotional intervention and support in the U.S., Italy, Germany, Switzerland, and Japan.

The retreat center reminded me of an old Spanish hacienda. The Piano Logic class was held in a small chapel on the top of a hill. The piano was located in the front of the chapel next to the altar.

As I rehearsed before the class started, small groups of people entered the chapel, one group at a time. Many guests moved their chairs closer to the piano. Several guests stood behind the piano looking over the top to see what I was playing.

As I began the class, I realized that one woman was sitting much further away. I noticed her husband helping her with a pillow to make her a little more comfortable as she sat down. I asked her if she would like to bring her chair closer to the piano so she could see what I was teaching. She declined.

I began to explain the Piano Logic format of basic structural forms and applied motion. I demonstrated the seven tones of the alphabet, how selected tones are combined to form music vocabulary, and how easy it is to play the piano. They were delighted. Many students took turns playing the piano, enchanted with their new-found talent.

"Playing the piano, especially at an older age, seems a daunting task to most people", says Dr. Simonton. "Playing the piano in a short period of time may seem impossible. The Piano Logic program that Patty teaches shows people that this is very doable, and gives people hope - not only hope to play the piano, but that many tasks related to their health can be achieved."

As I continued with the demonstration, I felt someone's leg touch mine. I turned and smiled to see the woman who, earlier, declined my invitation. She was sitting as close to me as possible. "I think I could do that" she said. "I know you can" I replied.