Issue date: 3/5/07 Section: News

Stephanie Sloman, enior special education major, and Kyle Pratt, special education graduate student, brave the frigid waters of Lake Sara in Effingham on Saturday afternoon during the Polar Plunge. The 86 plungers raised $16,770 for Special Olympics Illinois east central area nine. (Eric Hiltner/The Daily Eastern News)

While most people were bundled under their covers Saturday, 86 volunteers dove head first into Effingham's Lake Sara to benefit Special Olympics.

Megan Lynch said her younger brother, Kenny, thought it was the greatest thing in the world to watch her take part in the event.

Kenny, who suffers from Ausperger's Syndrome, didn't think his sister was the type of person to jump into cold water.

Megan, however, said she was not concerned about how the water felt. She just wanted to raise money for her brother.

"You have to try everything once," Lynch said.

Kimberly Abel, the ninth area director for the Polar Plunge, said swimming in icy waters might not be appealing to everyone.

"The weather like we are having today when it is cold, brisk out and the water temperature is 38 degrees, scares people off," Abel said.

For the many participants, wading in icy waters was well worth the cause.

Bill Thallemer, president of Lake Land College, said the Polar Plunge is part of what everyone goes through in life.

"Jumping in cold water is temporary compared to someone with a disability," Thallemer said.

Kenny Lynch, 20, was diagnosed with Ausperger's syndrome, a developmental condition related to autism that affects one's communication and social skills.

In 1998, Kenny started Special Olympics, and Megan volunteered the following year. Megan said Kenny inspired to not only participate in events like the Polar Plunge but to pursue a career in teaching special education.

"I love the athletes and the smiles on their faces," Lynch said. "It is the best feeling in the world."

Polar Plunge raised more than $16,000 for its athletes, according to Abel.

Abel said the athletes appreciate the participants help.

"They know that people do this for them and they go out and say 'thank you,'" Abel said. "It gives them a sense of involvement."

Heather Janick, special education major, said she was motivated to set her goal higher and raise the most money for the Polar Plunge. Janik raised more than $2,600.

Ryan Spears, a special education major, said he panicked when he couldn't feel his legs and lost his breath.

"I wanted to get out of there as quick as possible," Spears said.

Spears and his group raised more than $1,000. Spears said he jumped into cold lakes before, but the Polar Plunge was a great opportunity to raise some money.

"It is something that is not hard to do and not that expensive," Spears said. "I would definitely do it again."

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