A frightening family gathering in Saratoga Springs, Utah, turned into a moment of heartbreak and hope when 6-year-old Zion Silva fell from a second-story window while visiting relatives on Aug. 15. The accident left him with serious injuries, but after a week in the hospital, Zion has finally returned home to continue his recovery.

Zion and his 4-year-old brother, Leo, had been looking out an upstairs window toward their cousins when the window screen gave way. According to the family, Zion fell onto the pavement below. Emergency crews quickly responded, and he was airlifted to Primary Children’s Hospital in Salt Lake City.

Doctors diagnosed Zion with a fractured skull and a broken collarbone. He also required stitches for a forehead injury and was closely monitored during his hospitalization because doctors were concerned about possible complications.

As the family learned more about what happened, they discovered something that made the terrifying incident even more emotional. Leo reportedly told his family that Zion pushed him away from the window before falling himself. His parents believe Zion’s quick action may have prevented his younger brother from falling as well.

After seven days in the hospital, Zion was well enough to return home. His family says the next several months will focus on rebuilding his strength and helping him return to everyday activities. He is also scheduled to return to the hospital in three months for an MRI to make sure his brain is healing properly.

For Zion’s parents, seeing their son back at home is an enormous relief after days of uncertainty. Friends, relatives and members of the community have also rallied around the family, offering encouragement and support during his recovery.

Though Zion still has a long road ahead, his return home marks an important milestone. His family hopes that his story will not only celebrate his courage and love for his younger brother, but also remind other families that window screens are not designed to support a child’s weight.