Media Release

 

May 17, 2011

 

Still smiling after 285 days in hospital

 

Ethan Harvey will turn nine on Wednesday, but unlike most young boys Ethan will celebrate his Harry Potter themed birthday in hospital following a car accident in August 2010.

Both of Ethan’s parents, Cassandra and Jay, along with his younger brothers Caleb and Lucas were involved in the accident at Ravensworth, with Ethan sustaining the most serious injuries.

Ethan suffered an upper-spinal injury at his brain stem and spinal cord, making breathing and swallowing difficult, along with a loss of feeling in his legs.

Nursing Unit Manager Sandy Stone said that Ethan has made steady progress over the past nine months.

“When Ethan was admitted to John Hunter Children’s Hospital he was incapacitated, he needed constant care from nursing staff and was confined to his bed,” Ms Stone said.

“In the past few months he has made excellent progress, gaining some of his independence back by dressing himself, he is literally now taking very small steps in his recovery,” she said.

Starlight has ensured Ethan celebrates his birthday in extra special fashion with the Starlight Room decorated in everything Harry Potter. Children will receive wands, be allocated houses by a sorting hat and attend potion classes.

Newcastle’s Famous Tram will also visit and act as the Hogwarts Express, taking any children in hospital able to on a circuit of John Hunter.

Ethan will also receive a special birthday present from Greater Union Glendale who has sent an invitation for Ethan and his family to attend the opening night of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows – Part 2.

 

Media Opportunity:

When:       Wednesday 18 May at 10.30am
Where:      John Hunter Children’s Hospital
What:        Ethan Harvey celebrates his ninth birthday after 285 days in hospital

 

Media inquiries:

Lucas Coleman, 02 49213844, 0407895101 (ref HNE-2556)