Sally began working with my son Sam as his music therapist when he was just four years old. Sam is autistic and has an intellectual disability, with limited communication. At the time, he was non-verbal and he couldn’t even stay in the room with her for more than a few minutes at a time but through patience, kindness and an instinctive understanding of his needs, Sally built a gentle and trusting relationship with him through music. One of the most unforgettable moments was hearing Sam sing after a session - something I never thought I’d hear. Sally used rhythm and turn-taking as a way to connect, laying the foundations for communication. Sam loved experimenting with all the instruments and singing and gradually became focused on the piano. Sally taught him to read music and soon discovered that Sam had perfect pitch - something that still amazes us to this day, especially when he tells us what notes we’re hearing out and about. Thanks to Sally’s support and dedication, Sam now sight-reads music and is confidently working through his grade 2 piano pieces, having already learnt the full grade 1 set. He loves his scales, chords, and playing both solos and duets. Music has become a joyful and important part of his life. Sally also worked at Oak Hill ASD Childcare, where she was one of the most experienced and skilled members of staff - providing thoughtful, compassionate support to children and young people with autism and complex needs. Over the years, Sally and I have built a great friendship. She is incredibly kind, patient and supportive. I’ve seen first-hand the community she helped grow at Ocean Arts Cardiff through the events she organised - the open mic night was a particular favourite. I’m also a longtime fan of her band, The Brwmys. They kindly played at Sam’s 18th birthday party, which meant the world to him and to me and the rest of our family. Sally is an exceptional music therapist, a brilliant creative, and one of the kindest people I know. We’re so lucky to have her in our lives.