This was a day I was looking forward to; I was so excited to join my friends for my first-ever "Polar Plunge" to support Special Olympics of Arkansas.  As you can see in this picture, a fun day was had at the Polar Plunge and afterward, while enjoying lunch with my friends.  Unbeknownst to my family or me, everything would change on our drive home. 

March 6, 2021, I remember the day so clearly. It started as any normal day. I woke up, got ready for the day, grabbed my sash and crown, loaded up in the car, and headed to the Central Arkansas Polar Plunge. I have always wanted to participate in the Polar Plunge; however, I always had a gymnastics meet on the same day. That was the first year I could participate and support my friend in her passion for the Special Olympics. 

We dressed up as the characters from Winnie the Pooh and plunged into a 10-foot pool of water that was as cold as ice; it was exhilarating, refreshing, and motivating. Witnessing so many people gather as one to raise awareness for the Special Olympics was extremely empowering. After we finished the plunge, we headed to one of our favorite restaurants, McAlister’s Deli, to enjoy lunch with family and friends. I had what I always got: a BLT-A. We finished our lunch, said our goodbyes, and continued our Saturday. 

We were on the drive home when suddenly my mom’s phone rang. “Hello,” she said… then, I blanked.