MURWILLUMBAH, NSW, 6 FEBRUARY

Hours later, I am freed from the neck brace. Trying to be gentle, Tweed Heads Memorial Hospital staff hoist me on and off various platforms and gurneys for tests like a CT scan, a chest x-ray, and an ultrasound. I am told I have two crushed vertebrae and soft tissue damage from the airbag and the seatbelt. Otherwise, I am uninjured.

I find myself deeply naked.

I’ve lost everything: cell phone, handbag, shoes, wallet, money, credit cards, driver’s license, shawl, glasses. What isn’t lost has been cut off me. Read more