Going blind saved Freddy Petrone’s life. Mired in a downward spiral of addiction, his sudden tragic sight loss in 2018 at age 45, a result of Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy, detoured him onto a path of transformation, rebirth, and selflessness.
Petrone exudes pure joy, the kind that is so infectious you can feel it permeating your pores. His smile beams as if lit from within. It is hard to believe this same radiant man had lost all hope just six years ago.
A lifelong alcoholic, seriously overweight, and suffering from numerous health problems, Petrone sank into despair after hearing his diagnosis. A 16-week stint at the renowned Carroll Center for the Blind in Newton, Massachusetts, would lead to his salvation. Here, he discovered the 12-step program that opened the door to his recovery and spiritual renewal.
During the program, Petrone developed a passion for walking, gradually increasing his daily distance to 15-20 miles and shedding 55 pounds along the way. He was slowly regaining his health when he experienced a life-changing breakthrough. “It was a spiritual awakening. I was no longer restless, irritable, or discontented,” he says. “I had a real desire to help others.”
Petrone’s newfound attitude slayed the beast of self-pity. “The key to my recovery,” he says, “was to stop thinking about myself and start thinking about others.” He adds, smiling broadly, “I got hooked on God!” His brilliant burst of altruism gave birth to I Got Bridged (IGB), which he founded in 2021.
The nonprofit’s name originated from Petrone’s frequent experiences getting stuck on the Memorial Bridge as it lifted for passing ships during his morning walk. The name is metaphorical: “Getting bridged” is not only a physical barrier; it’s symbolic of life’s unexpected obstacles. The mission of IGB is to help individuals overcome their obstacles and cross their own bridges to the other side. “Getting unstuck is your time for joy,” Petrone says.
Petrone is eager to help seacoast residents with just about anything: transportation, food insecurity, homelessness, snow shoveling, or lawn care. The organization also offers support to those battling or recovering from addiction. IGB’s “Bridgemobile” service provides a lifeline to crucial destinations like the food pantry, church services, doctor appointments, and free community meals. On Wednesday nights, volunteers drive those recovering from alcohol or drug addiction to Recovery Church, a ministry linking the 12-step program to the church mission.
IGB seeks to support the community by sending uplifting care packages to residents facing hardships, struggles, or loneliness. Volunteers also distribute practical packages filled with essentials like toiletries, socks, and gloves to people experiencing homelessness. Additionally, passersby in Market Square might receive care packages to share with those in need they encounter. People are thrilled to discover this small but meaningful way to make a difference in the lives of others.
Petrone’s enthusiasm for his mission is inexhaustible. He laughingly says, “Depression has a hard time hitting a moving target.” However, he insists that none of this would have been possible without his board members and the support of local businesses and donors, particularly Gather Food Pantry and the First United Methodist Church. He is especially thankful for his 180 community volunteers.
A chance meeting in Market Square presented Petrone with his premier volunteer and right-hand woman, Joy Morin. The fittingly named Joy serves as Petrone’s eyes, board member, and treasurer. “Right away, she became a driving force behind I Got Bridged,” he says.
The humble Petrone refuses to take credit for the success of his thriving nonprofit, declaring, “It’s not about me.” Morin begs to differ. “Freddy is very modest,” she says. “He doesn’t want to be the superstar—but he is.
Interested in volunteering? Sign up at IGotBridged.com.
Pull quote: “The key to my recovery was to stop thinking about myself and start thinking about others. It was a spiritual awakening. I had a real desire to help other people.”
Pull quote: “It was a spiritual awakening. I was no longer restless, irritable, or discontented. I had a real desire to help others.