On Sept. 11, a drum circle of Connecticut Hospice patients, family, staff, and friends joined drum circle facilitator Mark Zarrillo (standing) for a meditative hour, sharing the music of their hearts.

"What I like about drumming is that the vibrations are like water," Zarrillo said. "It settles where it needs to go. Drumming can be a metaphor for any challenge or opportunity in life. It can be a magic carpet that transports you, it can be a megaphone, it can create a safe space."

To volunteer, make a donation or to learn more about non-profit Connecticut Hospice, located in Branford at 100 Double Beach Road, visit www.hospice.com.