Harry’s story

Read Harry's story

"Harry became gravely ill and was diagnosed with meningitis in the November after his first birthday. He spent four days in intensive care and was put into an induced coma. During that time, we were told by several doctors that he may become deaf as a result of his illness. After Harry had his coma medication reduced, we were transferred to a ward to begin his long road to recovery.

"After he was discharged, we became concerned that he may have lost his hearing. Harry had already started using his other senses to work out what was happening. A good friend of ours is an audiologist so we quizzed him at length, probably trying to convince him and ourselves that Harry wasn’t deaf, but deep down knowing it was likely.

"By the end of January, we had an immunology appointment where we were asked about his hearing and we said that we thought he found it hard to hear. We were referred to Winchester audiology department who confirmed that Harry was profoundly deaf. I was devastated and cried all the way home. I had so many questions: would he be allowed back to nursery, would he have friends, would he ever drive or go to the pub with his mates – spiralling into a world of uncertainty.

"In the March after Harry became ill, he was fitted with implants, and after switch-on he began learning how to hear and speak again. During an open day at the implant centre, we met our soon-to-be friends who spoke about The Elizabeth Foundation, and it was agreed that we would tag along on their next visit. As soon as we arrived at The Elizabeth Foundation, we were welcomed with open arms into the toddler group. It was so wonderful to meet families in a similar situation to us.

"Our aim was to ensure that Harry was school ready when he went into Reception. With the help of all the lovely interactive opportunities at The Elizabeth Foundation, and the input of Harry’s Teacher of the Deaf and his amazing aunt who would look after him every Tuesday, he reached all of his milestones and started school with age-related expectations.

"Harry went from strength to strength at infant school, his teachers often commenting on how well he listened and how he would make sure he was in the correct place to listen.

"Fast forward to now, Harry has just finished his GCSEs gaining excellent pass grades. He is now attending college doing A Levels in Geography, History and Environmental Science. He has a good group of mates and enjoys football, Park Run and the gym – along with XBOX!

"Harry is turning 17 at the end of the month so we will be digging deep and paying for driving lessons. A year from now I am sure he will be buying his dad a pint in the pub whilst watching the Arsenal game!

"We will forever be grateful to The Elizabeth Foundation for all that they gave to Harry and me in those early days, months and years. The support we were given provided the platform for Harry to thrive and reach his wonderful potential."