A flurry of questions followed, each one punctuated by increasing worry. “Can you feel this?” “Can you move your toes?” I shook my head, tears streaming down my face as the realization settled deeper into my bones. The paramedics exchanged a look, one that spoke of complications and consequences.

“Her spine could be injured.” The words were a whisper, but their weight was palpable. My mother’s expression shifted from frustration to fear, as if she was seeing me for the first time. Her hands fluttered helplessly as the paramedics immobilized me, strapping me securely to a board to transport me safely.