Chapter 9 - THE INJURY PATTERN
Caleb’s medical history became a map.
Age five.
Wrist sprain.
“Fell from scooter.”
Age six.
Scalp laceration.
“Ran into cabinet.”
Age six.
Rib bruising.
“Playground.”
Age seven.
Ankle fracture.
“Jumped from stairs.”
Age seven.
Burn on forearm.
“Kitchen accident.”
Age eight.
Current fracture.
Each individually plausible.
Together concerning.
Were they all inflicted?
No proof.
We resisted rewriting every childhood accident as violence.
The ankle fracture had witnesses at school.
The scalp laceration occurred at camp.
Real accidents happen to abused children too.
But the rib bruising?
No outside witness.
The burn?
Delayed care.
Current fracture?
May you like
Caleb’s own initial words:
Greg twisted me.
