Singing through the storm: utilizing virtual singing telegrams to foster staff wellness in a pediatric cancer hospital
March 11th, 2026
Houston, Texas, United States
Zachary Gresham, Melissa Sandoval, Karen Moody
In response to these challenges and the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers developed a virtual singing telegram program at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. In this article, authors detail the program’s operational aspects, including planning, production, and implementation.
DOI: 10.1080/17533015.2026.2643832
Posted byRiley Fitzpatrick
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Abstract/Description
Background: Pediatric oncology healthcare workers face significant stressors, leading to high rates of distress and burnout. In response to these challenges and the COVID-19 pandemic, we developed a virtual singing telegram program at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas.
Methods: This initiative, developed by the Arts in Medicine program, delivers personalized music videos to foster connection, appreciation, and morale among staff. Here, we detail the program’s operational aspects, including planning, production, and implementation.
Results: Staff feedback from a brief survey consistently identified feelings of appreciation, joy, and connection.
Conclusions: Our experience with the program underscores the powerful role of arts-based interventions in supporting healthcare workers’ well-being.
Methods: This initiative, developed by the Arts in Medicine program, delivers personalized music videos to foster connection, appreciation, and morale among staff. Here, we detail the program’s operational aspects, including planning, production, and implementation.
Results: Staff feedback from a brief survey consistently identified feelings of appreciation, joy, and connection.
Conclusions: Our experience with the program underscores the powerful role of arts-based interventions in supporting healthcare workers’ well-being.
