On Sunday, March 1, 2026 I will participate in Polar Plunge® Chicago for Special Olympics Illinois presented by Special Children's Charities, one of the city's most popular winter fundraising events! I am taking the Polar Plunge for my son, Benjamin, and for the incredible athletes of Special Olympics. Benjamin has autism, and every day he teaches us what true strength looks like. He experiences the world differently, but that difference comes with determination, joy, and a fearless love for dinosaurs that reminds us to be brave and unapologetically ourselves. Special Olympics is important to our family/friends because it creates a place where differences are celebrated, abilities are recognized, and everyone belongs. It gives athletes the chance to build confidence, friendships, and pride—things every person deserves. The Polar Plunge may be cold, but it represents something much bigger: standing up for inclusion, acceptance, and opportunity. We plunge to support kids like Benjamin, to cheer on athletes who work hard every day, and to help build a world where everyone is valued just as they are.