An Indiana high school graduate has taken his admiration for a beloved teacher to a permanent level by getting a tattoo of an inspiring quote she penned. The student credits her with helping him find his passion in life.
Chayce McCoy, the graduate, had the touching moment captured on camera when he revealed the tattoo to his teacher, Renee Sigmon. The video, shared on TikTok, quickly went viral, amassing 4.8 million views.
The tattoo on McCoy’s chest reads: “Don’t let anyone dull your sparkle! Always live your truth and continue to fight for what you believe!!” These words, written by Sigmon, had a profound impact on McCoy during his time at Carroll High School in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Upon seeing the tattoo, Sigmon was visibly moved, nearly brought to tears, and expressed her surprise with a heartfelt exclamation. The two shared an emotional hug, and Sigmon told her former student that he was “the best.”
McCoy’s journey through high school wasn’t always easy. When he started as a freshman, he struggled with mental health issues and lacked direction for his future.
“I had no hopes for myself. I didn’t want to go to college. College was not an option for me just because I had no drive, no motivation, and I just really was not going in a good spot or good direction,” McCoy explained in a follow-up TikTok video.
Things began to change during his sophomore year when he learned about the school’s two-year culinary program. By his junior year, McCoy had enrolled in the program, where he met Sigmon. Although he always enjoyed cooking, he never imagined it could become a career until he found support and guidance from his teacher.
McCoy’s story has resonated with many online, highlighting the lasting impact a teacher can have on a student’s life.