Family Day Turns to Tragedy as Mother Shatters Leg on Trampoline

A fun-filled family outing at a trampoline park in Boise, Idaho, took a devastating turn for 36-year-old Kirsten Browning when she severely injured her leg on March 2025. What was intended to be a joyful day of bouncing and laughter transformed into a life-changing event after Browning attempted to navigate an obstacle course and landed awkwardly.

On that day, just as the family was preparing to leave, Browning decided to take one last jump on the Wipe Out attraction. As she leaped into the air, she landed with her legs apart, resulting in a horrific injury. The sound of her leg cracking resonated so loudly that her husband initially believed a machine had malfunctioned. In a state of shock and excruciating pain—described by Browning as worse than unmedicated childbirth—she realized she could not move.

Emergency services were called, and Browning was transported to St. Alphonsus Hospital. An X-ray revealed the extent of her injuries: her tibia had shattered and her femur had been severely compromised, described by doctors as being crushed into “powder and pieces.”

Struggles with Recovery and Physical Therapy

A six-hour surgery followed days later in an attempt to repair the damage. Despite the medical intervention, Browning faced a grueling recovery process. For three months, she was unable to walk and relied on a wheelchair, crutches, and a walker. The physical therapy sessions brought additional challenges, including a condition known as “foot drop,” where the front part of the foot cannot be lifted due to muscle weakness. This complication further complicated her rehabilitation.

Browning recounted her experience: “I had to be very conscious of how I was walking. I couldn’t walk for three months, and my toe couldn’t touch the ground.” The emotional toll of her situation was significant, as she expressed feelings of despair during her recovery, often crying as she navigated the painful process of learning to walk again.

She emphasized the importance of her faith and the hope of regaining her mobility as key motivators during her rehabilitation. Now, nearly six months after the accident, Browning is still adapting to her new reality, using assistive devices to improve her mobility.

Raising Awareness About Trampoline Safety

Browning has vowed to never step onto a trampoline again and is determined to raise awareness about the dangers associated with trampoline parks. She noted that, according to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, approximately 100,000 trampoline-related injuries receive treatment in emergency rooms each year, with fractures and soft tissue injuries being the most common.

Reflecting on her experience, Browning stated: “I always loved to participate in activities with my kids. This has altered my year and my life. I’ll never look at a trampoline the same way again.” Her story serves as a cautionary tale for parents who may underestimate the risks involved in seemingly benign recreational activities.

Browning’s journey of recovery continues, marked by resilience and a commitment to sharing her story. As she navigates the challenges ahead, she remains focused on her goal of regaining full mobility and ensuring other families are informed about trampoline safety.