“I was trapped in a cycle of self-destruction. But now, I see the world with a newfound clarity and appreciation.” – Cari Peddycord

The road to transformation is rarely straightforward. For Cari, it was a winding journey filled with moments of struggle, pain, and self-doubt. But through sheer determination, the support of the PATHS Program at Televerde Foundation, and a belief that a brighter future was possible, Cari found her path to progress.

A Cycle of Destruction
Cari’s life was once consumed by addiction, a coping mechanism for the deep pain and instability she felt. “Substance use became a way to cope with the pain,” she shares. “It started as a way to escape but quickly spiraled into a destructive cycle that cost me relationships, jobs, and my sense of self.“

As the addiction deepened, it overshadowed every part of her life. What followed was a cycle of poor choices and desperation, driving Cari further into a place where self-destruction felt like the only way out. With each new setback, she found herself further trapped, her world narrowing as she fought against her own struggles.

Reaching Rock Bottom
Cari’s turning point came when she was sentenced to prison. “Getting sentenced to prison was my breaking point,” she admits. “It was my rock bottom. I realized I was destroying my life and the lives of those I loved.“

It was in this moment of despair that Cari made a pivotal decision: she would no longer let her past define her. She was ready to make a drastic change, not just for herself but for her loved ones, too.

Finding Hope Through the PATHS Program
At her lowest, Cari discovered the PATHS Program at Televerde Foundation. “I saw a glimmer of hope through the PATHS Program,” she recalls. “I knew it was the right turning point I needed.“

The program didn’t just offer a second chance—it gave Cari the tools, support, and mentorship she needed to change her life. “Through the PATHS Program, I gained mentorship that helped me build the confidence I desperately lacked and the tools I needed to navigate challenges,” she explains.

But the road to recovery wasn’t easy. Cari had to confront the trauma that had fueled her addiction. “The hardest part was confronting the deep-seated trauma that had driven me to use drugs as an escape,” she shares. “It was a constant battle against myself, against the lies my addiction whispered, telling me I wasn’t strong enough to survive without it.“

Discovering True Strength and a New Purpose 
Through mentorship and guidance, Cari discovered her own strength—a strength that wasn’t about invincibility but about resilience and courage. “I learned the true meaning of strength,” she says. “It’s not about being invincible, but about having the courage to face my demons and keep moving forward.“

Now, Cari faces the future with a sense of clarity, confidence, and gratitude. “Before, I felt lost, hopeless, and unsure of my future. Now, I have goals that are rooted in reality. I approach life with a sense of purpose and gratitude.”

Her relationships have transformed too. Cari has learned to build healthy, honest connections based on trust and mutual respect. “My relationships are now based on honesty and trust. I see the world with a newfound clarity and appreciation,” she says.

A Future Full of Possibilities
Cari’s story is a testament to the transformative power of second chances. By embracing change, confronting her past, and leaning into the community and mentorship provided by Televerde, she has created a new future—one full of hope and opportunity.

In recognition of her growth and transformation, Cari was honored as a Cinderella in Televerde Foundation’s Once Upon a Second Chance celebration—a symbolic moment that captured the strength, grace, and resilience she’s stepped into.

“My past struggles showed me what I am capable of, and it’s made me much more optimistic about what I can achieve,” Cari reflects.

Her journey proves that no matter where we start, there’s always a path to progress. Cari’s story reminds us that it’s never too late to take the first step toward a brighter tomorrow.