NORWAY – Stephens Memorial Hospital’s monthly Parkinson’s Support Group for Oxford County learned the harmonica at the April 24 meeting. Carl Barker, outgoing president of the Maine Chapter of the American Parkinson’s Disease Association, was on hand to teach a craft he has been developing for decades.

Barker shared his story of caring for his wife and using the harmonica as a creative outlet and music therapy. The group was given harmonicas by Barker, who said over his years of speaking on the harmonica he has given more than 400.

Marianne Gallo, LCSW and support group leader, said, “We had a great time learning to play the harmonica. It was a time to relax and have fun and some group members caught on fast. I agree with Carl Barker that people with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers should not become the disease.”

The support group is open to any individuals or families who are interested or have concerns about Parkinson’s disease. The group meets at 2 p.m. on the last Thursday of the month. For more information or to RSVP, contact Gallo at 743-7086. Stephens Memorial Hospital is part of the Maine Health family. Visit at www.wmhcc.org.