Vet Phoenix: Rising from ashes of adversity to transforming lives of veterans

Navy veteran Manuel Gomez has an awe-inspiring comeback story! In this episode he describes his unlikely journey and how he became the founder of Vet Phoenix, a nonprofit which helps incarcerated veterans recover, rehabilitate and create a bright future. For Manny, this struggle is personal- as he endured time in prison. From addiction, to crime, to living alongside LA gang members in solitary confinement, he transformed his life. He would eventually become a social worker, doctoral scholar and founder of an organization that transforms lives. We begin with a look back at his Navy service, and how prescribed medications sent him down a dark path. Gomez described how his addiction to prescribed meds fueled a darker addiction and eventually spiraled into crime, and being sentenced to prison. He shared vivid descriptions of prison life, solitary confinement, and how a Catholic radio station and hardened gang members inspired him to pursue a better path. He also recalled the emotional family moment when he dedicated his life to Christ, social work and a mission to mend spiritual wounds. Gomez describes his incredible rise after being released. He attended college earning a master’s degree, became an LA County executive and led programs for incarcerated vets, entered a Doctoral program and most recently launched Vet Phoenix. He shares how this innovative program helps justice-involved veterans get back on track and live a new life of meaning and purpose. He credits God for his success and is dedicated to sharing the unconditional love that inspired him to transform his life. Discover more and support Vet Phoenix here: https://vetphoenix.org/ Connect with CBS Eye on Veterans [email protected]