'A terrible accident': Toddler in hospital after 20-foot fall in Ladysmith, B.C.

A Crofton, B.C. family is thanking the community for its support after their youngest child fell roughly six meters (20 feet) over the weekend – fracturing her skull and dislocating her shoulder, among other injuries.

Sophia Taylor’s father says he had taken his four kids to Ladysmith’s Transfer Beach Park on Saturday afternoon. First they played, then he says they chose a spot for a picnic near a bench with a lookout above a kayak rental shed.

David says he looked down for a moment to place a bag near a bench when his youngest somehow slipped through a railing, falling onto a concrete pad below.

"I ran to the fence and I looked down and I saw her laying there," he said through tears and with a hand covering his face. "It was a split second I relive over and over again."

The three-year-old was flown to B.C. Children’s Hospital in Vancouver, where she remains today.

The family isn’t sure how long they'll be there or what her recovery looks like yet. But, Sophia’s parents are celebrating some progress four days after the fall. Sophia sat up for the first time this morning, opened her eyes later, and finally spoke.

"She said, 'Daddy,' and she said, 'All done.' She giggled," said Sophia’s mom, Selina.

They say she’s also been able to recognize her parents.

"It’s been astounding actually," said David.