Laughter is the best medicine
There is no need for alarm clocks in the Spinner household.
Mum Collette wakes her children up by breaking into song each morning before heading off for further singing duties with charity Spread a Smile.
“It’s the best job in the world,” says the 37-year-old who visits hospital wards at Northwick Park Hospital as part of a team of entertainers committed to ‘bringing a smile to children’s faces.’
Popular requests include Disney theme tunes and musicals although one tune Collette would be happy to let go after ten years with the charity is Frozen anthem Let it Go.
“I couldn’t even guess how many times I’ve sung it but it is still a firm favourite. Singing just takes me to another place. It is the best feeling to lift children’s spirits.
“I get to do what I love every day and it is great to be able to turn the atmosphere in a room around by making children laugh.”
Collette grew up in a musical family performing in school productions like the King and I and the Wizard of Oz before graduating to weddings, Bar Mitzvahs and other events.
She has duetted with Boy Zone’s Stephen Gately and sung for George Michael who requested she sang while he dined with friends.
“Laughter is medicine in itself. It is a real privilege to be able to work with children and be there to celebrate when they reach a milestone like being given the all-clear from cancer and ring a special bell.
“I remember singing to one child and her mum said it was the first time she had seen her daughter smile in a month.”
So, what will the Spinner family be doing this Christmas?
“We’ll be belting out a few classic. My brother and sisters all like singing so we’ll be getting the karaoke machine out.”
Spread a Smile works in 25 hospitals.