Ruth Guenzler, Mother of Special Olympics Illinois Athlete Erika Guenzler plunges into freezing cold water to support the program. Ruth has been participating in the Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge for 10 years. She has specifically plunged at the Olson Lake Plunge in Loves Park. Ruth has plunged in 20-degree weather with snow on the ground and in 60-degree weather, where the sun is shining. For Ruth, the hardest part of the whole plunge is waiting to jump in.
Year to year Ruth spices it up with different costumes. From Cruella de Vil to a tie-dye morph suite, her ideas are never short of imaginative. Her key to a perfect costume is, “think warm, wigs help!” Every year Ruth’s friends, family, and daughter Erika support Ruth by cheering her on while she plunges. They are ready and waiting with warm towels for her when she coming running out of the water. “Even though you are so freezing you cannot feel your limbs, there is something so invigorating about plunging. The atmosphere and the people make the experience that much better,” said Ruth.
Year to year, Ruth’s has consistently met and exceeded her $1,000 fundraising goal! As a mom of an Athlete, Ruth feels empowered by the generosity of those who support her in her plunge. “I am overwhelmed with joy by the generosity of others.”
Taking the Plunge to benefit Special Olympics Illinois is just one of the many ways Ruth supports her daughter Erika. Ruth’s advice to future plungers: “Go with a group, make a day out of it, and have fun!”
About the LETR Polar Plunge: This is the 19th year of the LETR Polar Plunge. In 19 years, more than 66,000 plungers have raised more than $18.4 million. GEICO, RIU Hotels & Resorts, and Apple Vacations are proud to be the Statewide Presenting Polar Plunge Sponsors.
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For more information or to register for a plunge visit: www.plungeillinois.com