Pasadena Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (PCADD) AOD recently organized a special hiking day for participants at Monrovia Canyon Park led by PCADD AOD Program Director Joanna Gomez and her staff.
This outing gave each individual an opportunity to connect with another participant and with staff outside the usual program setting. Some participants shared how different life feels now in recovery compared to before sobriety. Others said that before recovery, they never imagined themselves waking up early for a hike, enjoying nature, or finding peace and happiness in something so simple.
Recovery is not just about attending group meetings inside the facility. It is also about learning how to enjoy life again, create healthy memories, and reconnect with others. Something as simple as walking together on the trail, encouraging one another, and enjoying the scenery helped build a stronger sense of connection, support, and hope.
Everyone gathered to share a meal in the mountains before heading home after the hike, and ended the day with gratitude, smiles, and appreciation for each person’s recovery journey.
Joanna Gomez shared that this kind of activity can help participants reconnect with themselves and others in recovery.“Sometimes the most meaningful moments come from simply being together, enjoying peace, and realizing how far you’ve come,” she shared.
This kind of activity may seem small, but for many participants, it is a powerful reminder that healing can include friendship, peace, and the ability to experience life in a new way.
