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Avenues Recovery Center is a drug and alcohol rehab in New Hampshire with fifteen locations across seven states. Our state blog offers the latest on all addiction-related news in New Hampshire, keeping you updated on the rise and fall of current events in your area.
On New Year's Eve, hundreds gathered at Seabrook Beach for a truly unique and heartwarming event—the annual "Freezin' for a Reason" polar plunge. The event, organized by the local nonprofit Chucky’s Fight, brought together individuals from all walks of life, united in their commitment to raise awareness and funds for addiction recovery. As the frigid Atlantic Ocean welcomed participants, it was a powerful symbol of renewal, strength, and support for those on the road to recovery.
Jovanny Alcequiez, a 20-year-old currently in an addiction recovery program, took the plunge with a deep sense of purpose. He saw the cold dip as a "sign of renewal," and for him, the event symbolized both the challenge and the hope that comes with recovery. “I live in a sober home now because I wanted to get myself right,” said Alcequiez. “When I heard that they were doing a plunge for somebody who fought through addiction, I knew I had to take this fight along with them.” For Alcequiez and many others, it was not just about braving the cold waters but about joining a community of individuals who were fighting for their lives and supporting one another.
According to Sea Coast Online, Chucky Rosa, the founder of Chucky’s Fight, has a deeply personal connection to this cause. Rosa, who has battled addiction himself, created the event to honor the memory of his two sons, Dominic and Vincent, who tragically passed away from accidental drug overdoses. For the past 20 years, Rosa has made a daily ritual of taking a dip in the Atlantic Ocean at Seabrook Beach as a way of staying connected to his sons and to help him maintain his own sobriety. “Instead of making poor choices like going to the liquor store or doing drugs, I jump in the water,” he said. “It helps keep me clean and sober, and I try to reconnect with my sons.”
The annual plunge has grown over the years, attracting not only those directly affected by addiction but also supporters from the community. On December 31, nearly 200 people gathered under the Hampton Harbor Bridge, ready to dive into the icy waters to show solidarity and raise funds for Chucky’s Fight. The event is not just about taking a cold plunge; it’s about empowering participants to conquer their personal struggles, especially in the context of addiction.
Rosa believes that doing something as challenging as taking a plunge into freezing water can offer a powerful lesson in resilience. “If they can do something hard like this on a cold day, they can go and drive by the liquor store or not put a needle in their arms,” he said. The plunge is meant to inspire participants to face challenges head-on and realize that they can make positive choices even when life feels overwhelming.
As participants plunged into the frigid waters, it was clear that the Freezin’ for a Reason event is more than just a fundraiser—it’s a powerful reminder that recovery is a continual process. The event creates an opportunity for people to reflect, renew their commitment to sobriety, and share in the collective strength of a community that understands the challenges of addiction. As Chucky Rosa encouraged everyone before the plunge, “Let’s make 2025 a great year,” reinforcing the idea that each new year offers the chance for a new beginning.
For those in the recovery community and beyond, this event was not just a cold dip in the ocean—it was a meaningful, symbolic step toward healing, hope, and a brighter future for all.
If you or your loved one are struggling with addiction, and would like to break free, reach out to Avenues Recovery. Our expert staff have helped thousands of people overcome their addictions, and can help you too. We combine a wide range of therapies with personalized treatment plans to give our clients the individualized recovery experience they deserve. Contact us to begin your journey to sobriety!