MADISON COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT) — Back to school is always filled with excitement, but for one Madison County student, this year meant event more.
After bravely recovering from brain surgery, Colby Eppes returned to school, greeted by the same familiar smile that waits for him every morning.
The reunion between Colby and his bus driver, Mr. James Harrison, is a reminder that sometimes the first smile of the day is about more than just transportation; its about care, and connection.
For Colby’s mom, seeing him step onto the bus was more than just another school morning; it was reassurance after a long and difficult road.
It meant safety, comfort, and a sense of normalcy for her family. Colby is special needs, and earlier this year, he had surgery on his brain, that did not go as planned.
Colby had a cholesteatoma when he was born, which is a destructive, non-cancerous growth of skin cells, and he lost hearing in his left ear.
He also had an infection on his brain, and has had several surgeries since birth. For Mr. Harrison, it serves as a reminder of the impact one caring adult can have in a child’s life.
Alexis Noble, Colby’s mom, says Mr. Harrison is more than a bus driver; he is family. Together, their smiles show a story of hope, healing, and the kind of connection that makes the Madison County School district feel like home to so many.
Colby’s photo of his first day back to school was one of many photos shared across the school district, but his stood out.
His smile, and Mr. Harrisons’ smile right beside him, represents something bigger than just going back to class. Colby’s mom said by Mr. Harrison checking in on Colby everyday after his surgery reminded her that she was not alone.
When Colby finally climbed on the bus, that moment was about celebrating progress and perseverance. Mr. Harrison is known in the community as the bus driver who will honk, smile as he drives by, plays music, and loves his job.
For Colby, the first day back in the classroom was more than just going to school; it was a reminder that healing happens with the help of his community and his bus driver.
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