PARKLAND, Fla. (WFLA) — A Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School student, who suffered injuries so severe paramedics initially thought she was dead, spoke Monday morning about her amazing recovery.

Maddy Wilford is a junior at the school. She suffered multiple gunshot wounds in the attack. Her doctors say she was shot in the chest, abdomen and arm.

When paramedics arrived at the school, they discovered Maddy and thought she was dead. A deputy shook her to illicit a response and she made signs of life.

Paramedics immediately began treating her and asked how old she was. At first, Maddy did not respond, but then she told paramedics that she was 17 years-old.

At that point, paramedics made a decision that may have saved Maddy’s life. They decided to take her to a hospital 10 miles away instead of a hospital 30 miles away.

When Wilford arrived at the hospital she was in shock, pale, and unresponsive. She had also suffered massive bleeding. Doctors worked for hours to save her life.

Doctors say Maddy is lucky to be alive considering the severity of her injuries. Large-caliber bullets penetrated her chest and abdomen.

Maddy Wilford held back tears Monday as she thanked first responders, her doctors and all those who have shown her love during this tough time.

“I was sitting on my sofa today thinking about all the letters and gifts everyone has given, just all the love that has been passed around. I wouldn’t be here without it. I just want to send my appreciation to all of you. Like my mom said, it is times like these that I know we need to stick together,” she said.

Maddy’s mother said the power of prayer helped Maddy make a quick recovery. “We have had an outpouring from people we did not know,” said mom Missy Wilford. “She’s a fighter.”

Missy Wilford also had a message for parents of students who survived the massacre and will be returning to school on Wednesday. “Do not be afraid to reach out for help.”

Maddy Wilford is now at home continuing her recovery. She and her family met President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump a few days after the shooting.

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