On Top of the World

Listening to The Carpenters hits 'cures' lan's paralysis syndrome

- STEPHEN WHITE

IAN Palmer is proof that We've Only Just Begun to appreciate the healing power of music.

The 71-year-old suffered near-total paralysis and speech impairment as he was struck down by GuillainBarre syndrome in June last year.

When medics suggested music therapy, including singing and doing mindfulness exercises while listening to his favourite tunes, the "typical Northern man" was sceptical.

But something about The Carpenters struck a chord and after playing their hits nightly he can now walk two miles a day and chat with family.