It's that time of year again!!  This will be my 16th Polar Plunge!  This plunge season is a bit different for me as I was recently diagnosed with breast cancer after Christmas last year in 2023 and was told I may have to miss out on Special Olympic events with my athletes, which is NOT acceptable to me.  Prior to my surgery to insert my port for chemo, I asked my amazing surgeon if I can still do the plunge and he looked at me like I was crazy given my situation and said he wouldn't win the arguement because I said I MUST ABSOLUTELY HAVE to do the plunge for my athletes and that is what I intend to do. Now as you all know, I absolutely despise the cold and always have endless layers on, but breast cancer will NOT stop me from entering the cold waters of Lake Michigan for these amazing athletes all across the city of Chicago.  Especially knowing where the money raised for this event goes, melts my heart and I would do anything for our Special Olympics athletes.  This includes jumping in the icy waters of Lake Michigan despite my current situation!!  I have been coaching Special Olympics athletes for 17 yrs and it's truly the BESTEST job in the world.  Nothing beats seeing that smile on an athlete's face when they get their award.  No matter the disability, Special Olympics has something for everyone.  Where else can you find that?  I teach at an all special ed high school and my students absolutely love competing in Special Olympics, which is why I continue to run our program because it makes them happy and why I am willing to take the plunge yet again for my 150 plus athletes.  I was told to find a reason to fight so that I can be motivated to beat breast cancer's @$$ and Special Olympics and my athletes are DEF the reason for me, so if you're able to make a donation, please do.  Any amount will help make a world of a difference for our athletes and we are forever grateful for your generosity.  See you IN the lake!  Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr