Steve Ricciardi has followed a challenging path, one that led him from the high-stress world of Wall Street to a newfound lease on life, thanks to Reactivation Massage in Bridgewater. Patricia Vreeland, his licensed massage therapist, became his unwavering pillar of support, nurturing his physical and mental well-being every step of the way.
Ricciardi’s journey began upon retiring from Wall Street, plagued by high blood pressure and weight issues. While he initially found success in shedding excess weight and improving his fitness, the hurdles of aging soon overshadowed his progress. In 2017, he underwent a hip replacement, but a full recovery eluded him. His troubles started specifically after opening a guitar shop in Morristown, leading to unhealthy eating habits and additional weight gain. His body grappled with muscle issues, and his knee and hip joints were deteriorating.
“I pleaded with an orthopedic surgeon to grant me a knee replacement,” Ricciardi explains, “but he advised me to wait, as I still had some ways to go in my journey. I’d already had both knees scoped, my hip replaced and various issues with my arms. It felt like my body was falling apart.”
This spring, Ricciardi reconnected with Vreeland after losing touch during the pandemic. Vreeland would prove instrumental in Ricciardi’s rehabilitation, providing the physical support necessary to restore his health and mobility. She helped him navigate his physical problems, acting as a triage partner throughout the process.
A pivotal moment came when Ricciardi decided to undertake 85 miles of the challenging Camino de Santiago pilgrimage in Spain. Despite concerns from his family and friends, Ricciardi was determined to embrace this challenge with unwavering support from professionals like his orthopedic trainer and, most significantly, Vreeland.
“He understood that he needed to put in the effort and sought assistance from the right people who could help him achieve his goals,” Vreeland says. “It was a daunting task, walking all those miles in another country, but he faced his fears head on.”
With Vreeland’s guidance, Ricciardi diligently prepared for the pilgrimage. In the end, he not only completed the grueling 85-mile journey but exceeded expectations, conquering 115 miles in just nine days. This achievement marked a profound transformation in both his physical and mental well-being.
Ricciardi has showcased that age is no barrier to achieving one’s goals. He passionately encourages individuals contemplating life changes to step out of their comfort zones, embrace new experiences and prioritize their health.
“The fears of not making it or slowing down the people you’re hiking with are entirely legitimate. It’s a tremendous accomplishment for him to overcome those fears, especially at the age of 59,” Vreeland says. “He knew how to reach out to the right people, and he understands that continuous effort is vital for achieving his goals.”
Vreeland emphasizes that Ricciardi’s story exemplifies the power of setting objectives, seeking professional guidance and cultivating a robust support system. She recognizes that Ricciardi’s journey continues, and he regularly visits her for ongoing support. With her assistance, he is prepared to face new challenges and sustain his enhanced well-being.
“It won’t be easy from here on out,” Ricciardi says. “I’m Italian, and I want to enjoy pizza and pasta. Occasionally, I can indulge, but we must maintain discipline.”
Ricciardi’s narrative is a testament to resilience, transformation and the pivotal role that professionals like Vreeland at Reactivation Massage play in helping individuals surmount physical obstacles and achieve their dreams. Vreeland, in turn, is proud of their collaborative efforts in swiftly getting Ricciardi back on his feet and moving toward a brighter, healthier future. Ricciardi’s inspiring journey is a testament to the power of determination and the unwavering support of those who believe in the potential of every individual, regardless of age. His story serves as a beacon of hope for anyone seeking to overcome physical challenges and embrace a healthier, more fulfilling life.
View the services at ReactivationMassage.com.
A pivotal moment came when Ricciardi decided to undertake 85 miles of the challenging Camino de Santiago pilgrimage in Spain.
Ricciardi has showcased that age is no barrier to achieving one’s goals. He passionately encourages individuals contemplating life changes to step out of their comfort zones, embrace new experiences and prioritize their health.