- Monash Children's Hospital
- 2 min read
The new school year sees 6-year-old Harvey marking a milestone — he’s starting Prep!
Born premature at 25 weeks gestation, Harvey spent 115 days in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and special care at Monash Children’s Hospital.
‘To be at the point where he’s going to school — we never thought we’d get here,’ said Harvey’s dad, Michael Raegar.
‘There were a couple of times where we thought we were going to plan a funeral before his first birthday,’ shared his mum, Rebecca Raegar.
In the first 3 years of his life, Harvey developed challenging respiratory infections, receiving care at Casey Hospital and Monash Children’s Hospital.
‘For the first 3 years of his life, he spent more time in hospital than he did at home,’ Rebecca, Harvey’s mother.
‘Canopy ward became a second home. The nurses used to joke that they would name the bedroom after him, because we literally bounced back and forth!’
Preparing for Prep
Harvey — nicknamed Hurricane Harvey by his parents — loves Spider Man and his little sister, Sienna.
He has autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
In preparation for his start at school, Harvey has been doing ‘homework’ that can build confidence, establish predictable routines, and foster calm.
‘He has a social story with photos of his classroom, teacher, and daily activities to explain what to expect. We’ve been reading that every day.’
‘He has also had occupational therapy, speech therapy and physio to familiarise him with school skills. Things like unpacking his school bag; how to hold a pencil; and putting his hand up to get the teacher’s attention.’
Overcoming challenges
‘It is wonderful to see Harvey getting his schoolbag ready and heading off to Prep,’ said Dr Ciara Earley, a paediatrician at Monash Children’s Hospital.
‘Harvey and his family have overcome many challenges along the way to achieve this important milestone from his early days in NICU. It has been a pleasure to be part of this journey with Harvey and I wish him and his family all the best for the start of school.’
Rebecca, who now works at Monash Health in administration, is grateful for the care her family received.
‘We wouldn’t be reaching this achievement without the hospital’s facilities or staff. So, thank you from the bottom of our hearts.’
We wish Harvey all the best for the year ahead!
