Morgan, a ten-year-old girl with brown hair and striking green eyes, sits near the window, her gaze drifting between her classmates and the world outside. She squints slightly, shielding her eyes from a shaft of sunlight streaming through the window. The bus is alive with movement, but Morgan appears tense, her fingers twisting the strap of her backpack.
Morgan’s eyes flutter, her body stiffening as the light overwhelms her senses. A hush falls. Nearby, Jasmine, her friend with curly hair and a curious expression, leans closer, uncertain and afraid. "Morgan? Are you okay? What's happening?" The driver slows the bus, and several children watch with wide eyes, whispers darting back and forth.
Morgan[/@ch_1] regains consciousness.]
Morgan blinks, disoriented, cheeks flushed with embarrassment. She notices her classmates staring and pulls her knees to her chest. Mr. Harris, the kindly bus driver with silver hair, kneels beside her. "Take your time, Morgan. You're safe here. Do you want to call someone?" She shakes her head, glancing at Jasmine, feeling the sting of shame.
Jasmine[/@ch_2] scoots closer, concern etched on her face.]
"Morgan, what happened back there? Were you scared?"
"It was a seizure. I have epilepsy, and sometimes bright or flashing lights can trigger it," Morgan explains, her voice trembling. Some kids listen in, their curiosity mingled with confusion and sympathy.
Morgan[/@ch_1] stands at the front, her classmates gathered around. She holds a laminated card with the word “Epilepsy” in bold letters.]
"I want to tell you all what epilepsy is. It means my brain reacts differently to certain things, like flashing lights. If I have a seizure, I can't control it, and it's not my fault. I need you to stay calm and tell an adult if it happens," she says, her green eyes scanning the room.
Eli, a classmate with freckles, raises his hand. "Does it hurt? Can we help?"
"It doesn't hurt, but it can be scary. You can help by making sure I'm safe and not laughing or staring. Just be my friend," Morgan replies, a small smile forming.
Jasmine gives Morgan a reassuring hug. "We'll look out for you, Morgan. And maybe we can all learn more about epilepsy together," she suggests. Laughter and chatter return as the class gathers around Morgan, eager to be part of her world, united by newfound empathy and friendship.
