In March 1994, 16-year-old Aaron Bacon was taken to a wilderness therapy program, which promised hope but ended in tragedy. The podcast examines the negligence he faced, comparing his case to others, and sheds light on the dark history of such programs. It highlights systemic failures and calls for urgent reforms to protect vulnerable youth. The emotional aftermath for Aaron’s parents is deeply explored, showcasing their pain, feelings of injustice, and the complexity of love amid struggle.
Aaron Bacon's enrollment in a wilderness therapy program stemmed from his family's concern over his declining behavior due to drug use.
The North Star Expeditions program implemented harsh treatment methods that ultimately contributed to Aaron's physical and emotional deterioration.
The investigation following Aaron's tragic death highlighted significant issues of neglect and abuse within unregulated wilderness therapy programs, prompting calls for reform.
Deep dives
Aaron's Background and Family Concerns
Aaron Bacon was a bright and empathetic teenager, known for his kindness and artistic talents. However, turmoil began in his family life when his older brother, Jared, started using recreational drugs, leading to a pattern of behavioral changes in Aaron. Buckling under the pressure, Aaron began experimenting with drugs himself, which contributed to a decline in his academic performance and social withdrawal. Concerned for their son, Aaron's parents pulled him out of school and sought ways to address his troubling behavior.
The Decision for Wilderness Therapy
After considering various options, Aaron's parents decided to enroll him in a wilderness therapy program called North Star Expeditions, believing it could provide him with guidance. North Star’s approach involved long hikes, outdoor survival skills, and therapeutic discussions in a natural setting meant to build discipline and self-esteem. Although significant worries arose over the program's cost and the treatment methods, the Bacon family was convinced by anecdotes from other parents about positive transformations. Unfortunately, the program seemed ill-prepared for the emotional and physical challenges Aaron would soon face.
Disregard for Aaron's Health
Upon arriving at North Star, Aaron underwent a strip search and a medical examination, revealing traces of cannabis but no apparent health concerns. However, as conditions at the camp escalated, Aaron struggled physically from the onset due to harsh treatment and inadequate food supplies. Despite repeatedly complaining about severe stomach pain and extreme fatigue, his struggles were dismissed by camp counselors as manipulation. Over time, Aaron's health deteriorated significantly, yet the staff provided little to no medical intervention.
Deterioration and Death
Aaron’s condition continued to worsen as he faced untreated medical issues while at the camp. Following repeated falls, empty stomach, and sleep deprivation, his body became increasingly frail; he ultimately lost over 20 pounds in a short time. The camp staff's failure to listen to or address his degradation culminated in a tragic incident where Aaron collapsed, leading to his passing shortly after. This prompted a significant investigation that revealed a lack of proper care and neglect within the camp protocols.
Aftermath and Consequences
The subsequent investigation into Aaron's death and the operational practices of North Star Expeditions unveiled a history of negligence and abuse within wilderness therapy programs. Parents of previous campers and advocates began speaking out against the unregulated industry, leading Aaron's parents to fight for stricter oversight. Legal repercussions ensued for the camp's founders and staff, resulting in felony charges and changes to industry regulations. However, despite significant changes proposed in the wake of Aaron's death, wilderness therapy practices remain contentious and often unregulated.
*** Content warnings: Child abuse, sexual assault *** On an early morning in March 1994, two strange men entered 16-year-old Aaron Bacon’s bedroom and told him they were there to take him away. Aaron’s parents had signed him up for a 63-day wilderness therapy program called North Star Expeditions in the hopes that some time following a disciplined routine in the natural world would help Aaron kick his drug habit and regain his focus. But none of them had any idea what lay in store…
