Polar Penguin Plunge to raise funds and awareness for Cystic Fibrosis research.
By Firefighter Jim Fredriksson
March 1, 2020
In an effort to raise money for research and promote awareness towards a cure for Cystic Fibrosis, Jen Koke, whose daughter Camryn suffers from CF, coordinates the annual Polar Penguin Plunge for Cystic Fibrosis Awareness event that takes place at Founder’s Landing in Southold.
SFD Rescue Squad Lieutenant Janet Auer’s daughter Ericka who passed away in 2014 from Cystic Fibrosis at the age of 18 who loved Penguins (hence the name Polar Penguin Plunge) is honored yearly at this event and this year a special table was set up in her memory. Janet’s son Zac, 28, also suffers from CF but seems to be doing well on a new medication that for the most part was developed through national funding through events like the Polar Penguin Plunge. The Auer and Koke families are very appreciative to all who help out and participate in this special event.
The Southold Fire Department always has a large turnout to support Janet and Jen as well as helping to provide a safe scene and any needed after care. The water in the bay is still mighty c-c-c-cold! SFD provides specially trained water rescue personnel, divers and EMT’s as well as a warm ambulance to assist in counter-acting any exposure injuries that may occur.
Congratulations and kudos to all of the participants, young, old and in-between who braved the chilly water and brisk breezes while helping to raise Cystic Fibrosis awareness and research funding. "We look forward to next years event and hope to see you there!"
In Loving Memory of Ericka Rose.
SFD volunteers. Suiting up sir!
Jen Koke and SFD Rescue Squad Lt. Janet Auer
Janet and Erik
EMT's at the ready, Vicki, Mike and Karen.
Dive and water rescue team members.
The SFD Polar Penguin Plunge stand-by support contingent.
Scene safety survey and preparation.
Capt. J.R and ex-Captain Dave, the current SFD Training Officers.
Southold P.D. Scene is safe. Thank you gentlemen.
Charlie, Rescue Squad Captain and Go-Pro enthusiast.
Anticipation...three, two , one...
First in, first out, that water is C-O-L-D, cold!
And launch! No turning back.
Feverish activity.
Hulabaloo!
Brave souls bounding!
Chief Craig, and Training Officers Dave & J.R. survey the scene.