Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

Derek Ruth, a Lincoln resident and member of North American Martyrs Parish, has released an autobiography titled "The Eight-Minute Flight," detailing his extraordinary experiences following a traumatic brain injury sustained during a football game at age 12. After collapsing on the field, Ruth was life-flighted for emergency surgery, during which he claims to have had a remarkable encounter with Jesus.

"After my first initial encounter with Jesus in Heaven, I kept quiet about that experience and only told a few select people, such as my parents and brothers," Ruth explained. He decided to write about these encounters because "Jesus kept appearing to me on somewhat of a regular basis when I was in my late teenage years, early 20s."

Ruth vividly remembers standing before Jesus while medical personnel worked to save him. "I had no real sense of leaving my physical body," he recounted. The presence of Jesus left him feeling purified and glorified: "His face was perfect... The heart of Jesus was bursting with unconditional light."

Following his surgeries, Ruth faced significant challenges in recovery. Initially comatose and unable to move except for his left hand, he relied heavily on prayer and family support. "My faith has gotten me through every trial and tribulation I was faced with," he said.

During his recovery at Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital, Ruth shared his heavenly encounter with his mother. His faith journey included unexpected appearances from religious figures like Mother Teresa.

Now a University of Nebraska-Lincoln graduate living independently despite lingering effects from the injury, Ruth reflects on how the experience changed him: “This experience has changed me by [teaching me to] not take anything for granted.”

His book aims to inspire others by sharing his story of resilience and faith. Bishop James Conley expressed admiration for Ruth's journey: “Getting to know Derek as a friend and hearing his remarkable story of faith... has profoundly moved me as a bishop.”

"The Eight-Minute Flight" is available at Gloria Deo bookstores in Lincoln and Omaha or online at various retailers. More information can be found on Derek Ruth’s website theeightminuteflight.com.