Hard work has paid off for RCH patient David, who has been offered a place at Monash University to study a Bachelor of Science Advanced – Research (Honours), after achieving an ATAR of 98.85!

Born with the genetic disorder duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), David has spent most of his life visiting doctors at the RCH, but he hasn’t let his treatment get in the way of keeping up at school.

David hopes to become a researcher so that he can help other people who have DMD in the future.

We caught up with David to hear all about his plans.

Tell us about why you are a patient at the RCH and how long you’ve been a patient.

“I have been a patient at the RCH since about the age of five, so almost 13 years now. I have duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) which essentially means my muscle strength has slowly deteriorated over time, forcing me to become dependent on using a wheelchair. As a result, I have been required to see doctors at the RCH during my lifetime to prevent the weakening of my muscles from occurring as quickly.”

Has having to attend hospital ever impacted on your studies?

“Over my years I have been required to miss days at school because I had to go to the RCH. While I missed classes, I always kept in touch with my teachers and so I was able to keep on top of the work I was required to do. It was frustrating at times but I honestly don’t think I ever struggled to keep up at school. Going to the hospital just became normal so I was able to fit it into my life without it severely impacting my studies. I was determined to do my best and I wasn’t going to let my disability get in the road.”

Describe how you felt when you found out you’d received an ATAR of 98.85?

“I wasn’t too concerned about my ATAR as I was confident that I had achieved the score I wanted. However, I did not think I would get a score as high as 98.85 so I was very surprised and amazed when I saw the marks. It was a relief to know all the hard work had paid off, so I was extremely happy.”

What subjects did you study, and what was your favourite?

“I studied Revolutions History, English, French, Maths Methods, Chemistry and Physics. Chemistry was by far my favourite subject.”

Now you’ve finished school, what’s next?

“I received an offer to my first preference to complete a Bachelor of Science Advanced – Research, which will take four years.”

Has your own life experience impacted your decision? 

“I want to study a science that can help others, especially as my own condition is still incurable and I am sure research will be the key to finding a way to eradicate it. I am very interested in research because it can have a life-changing impact.”

Will you also be leaving the RCH behind anytime soon?

“I will be transitioning to adult hospitals this year as I am now 18. It will certainly be a big change but I have faith that the doctors will look after me well. It feels a little strange to be moving towards adulthood but I am excited about what lies ahead.”

Congratulations, David!