For a single devastating week, the entire town of Walthorne, reeling within the trauma of Teddy Youngblood’s injury, relies only on hope. Despite the whispered rumors of more than an accident causing Teddy’s injuries, the conflict between Teddy’s parents and Coach Bizetti, no one gives up hope that Teddy will come out of the coma.

A coma is a difficult medical reality. Because it can last an indeterminate time without explanation or medical reasons, Teddy’s doctor is uncertain about a timetable for Teddy’s recovery. Thus, the coma presents an opportunity to cling to hope. Teddy is in the coma for nearly a week—during that time, each character expresses in their own way how desperately they believe, against the evidence, that Teddy will come back. When Sarah has an emotional moment with her son, concerned that the mounting evidence indicates that her son’s injury was no accident, she says that she does not want evidence, she will wait until Teddy tells her. That he will not recover is not an option. “I want him to look me in the eye and say it to my face” (212).

Teddy’s parents, Camille, the high school community, and those from the town who gather at the vigil, are united by the refusal to give up hope.