Chapter 1: A Life-Changing Moment

This article discusses a significant personal experience surrounding the 2017 solar eclipse, which served as a pivotal moment in my life.

Please note that this narrative includes themes of suicide, mental health struggles, and self-harm. If these topics are distressing, please feel free to step away or seek content that feels more comfortable for you. If you or someone you know is facing challenges with suicidal thoughts or depression, reaching out for help is crucial. In Indiana, the suicide prevention hotline can be reached at 9–8–8, while the national hotline is (800) 273–8255.

Five months after a near-fatal attempt on my life, I found myself branded as a “troubled youth” among my peers at an all-boys school. I had no inkling that witnessing a solar eclipse would help me uncover a sense of peace that would guide me back to a better path.

Navigating life as a troubled youth was far from easy. My reputation suffered, leaving even my closest friends unaware of my struggles. Following a five-hour surgery for a burst fracture, I had endured multiple hospital transitions since December 2016, resulting in a back filled with rods and screws.

Chapter 2: The Path to Healing

During this turbulent period, I ran away five times and overdosed on pills three times, leaving my mother overwhelmed as she also cared for my grandmother, who was suffering from dementia. The chaos I caused compounded her stress.

Eventually, I was placed in Campagna Academy, a haven that became a sanctuary for reflection and rebuilding my life. On the week of August 21, 2017, I delivered a speech to the other residents of my unit, One East, shortly before my planned discharge.

Although I didn’t anticipate the emotional response from my peers, many were visibly moved by my words. The prospect of returning home filled me with a mix of excitement and apprehension, especially after undergoing a last-minute medication adjustment.

Section 2.1: Understanding Campagna Academy's Program

For those unfamiliar with the Campagna Academy phase program, the final phase is crucial for demonstrating reliability to return home or to reduce time in juvenile detention. Progression through the phases involves increased privileges and community interaction, culminating in family nights that foster connection.

Despite previous turmoil, our unit was starting to experience more joy as we healed together.

Chapter 3: The Eclipse Experience

On the morning of August 21, 2017, I had an unexpected appointment with my neurosurgeon in Indianapolis. A staff member, Mr. Wendell, who had a passion for gospel music, was to escort me and another resident, Derrick, to the hospital. Both of us had undergone major surgeries after serious accidents.

As we traveled to the hospital, the sky darkened ominously, creating an eerie atmosphere. In Indiana, we only experienced a partial eclipse, while the full spectacle crossed from Oregon to Georgia.

Signs along the highways warned drivers to pull over during the eclipse to avoid being blinded.

As we entered the outpatient center, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation. Both CNN and The Weather Channel were covering the eclipse live, a reminder of the event's significance. The real-life experience, however, would prove to be far more impactful than watching it on television.

Five minutes later, after an assessment and X-rays, Mr. Wendell and I awaited the neurosurgeon. His reaction to my X-rays was one of shock, highlighting the severity of my injuries.

Our appointment concluded quickly, and as we exited, the sky exhibited a bizarre color palette. Medical staff paused their duties to witness the eclipse, reflecting the shared awe of this rare event.

The nurses gasped and shouted as the eclipse unfolded, allowing me a brief glimpse of the sun, thanks to protective glasses provided by the hospital.

As we returned home, raindrops fell intermittently, yet the experience of witnessing the eclipse remained a privilege, enriching my perspective on life.