After playing with the Utah Symphony for 50 years, Katherine Peterson retired and had back surgery which curtailed her violin playing. Shortly after that her adored husband became very sick and passed away after a lingering illness. With her violin gone, her children grown and gone, and now her husband gone she felt totally bereft. Not playing for two years made her feel as if her music had died as well.
Looking for something to reach outside herself she called Primary Children's Hospital to offer her services. Vickie Morgan, Director of Volunteers, encouraged her to come play her violin. This gave her the courage to try. Although uncomfortable at first she has found her voice again and is back to playing her violin in concerts and for the joy of the patrons of Primary Children's Hospital.
"Everyone has a unique gift to offer someone in need. There is no greater satisfaction than sharing whatever talent you have. The hospital is a sacred place of healing, and love, and caring to me. I'm grateful I have something I can offer. That is my gift."
Her greatest compliment came from a kindly gentleman who had been sitting behind her unobserved. When she turned around he softly said, "Thank you for bringing humanity to us."
