Town of Brookhaven polar plunge Special Olympian ‘freezing’ but fulfilled

Peter Lowery went into the chilly Long Island Sound Saturday, wearing a shark hat until he was knee deep.

He had an important reason to be freezing.

Lowery was among those raising money at the sixth annual Freezin’ for a Reason Polar Plunge, held at Cedar Beach in Mount Sinai. Proceeds benefited Special Olympics New York, an organization that allows athletes with special needs to train and compete year-round in 22 Olympic-style sports.

Lowery, 24, of Patchogue, was among 1,000 polar plungers at the event, which was hosted by the Town of Brookhaven. The event raised $150,000, which will help Special Olympics New York cover costs including equipment, training, competitions and venues.

Eager to get in and out of the cold water, Lowery took his fifth polar plunge in good stride.

"It was pretty freezing," he admitted.

Lowery, who has been a part of Special Olympics New York since he was 3, is diagnosed with Fragile X Syndrome, a genetic condition that causes a range of developmental challenges such as learning and cognitive disabilities. Lowery also has mild autism which can cause delayed speech.

SEE PHOTOSPhotos: Long Island polar bear plunges

Lowery's parents, Robert and MaryEllen Lowery, both 57, admitted they were thankful for the Special Olympics and eager to show their support. They enjoy supporting their son, who competes in golf and swimming. 

"The Special Olympics allow us to meet other parents going through the same thing. You don't feel alone," said MaryEllen Lowery. “Peter is learning to be on a team and carry golf clubs and not complain."

Lowery's sister, Emma, loves witnessing her brother's social skills improve every single day through being a part of the Special Olympics New York.

"He is more open,” said Emma, 22. “The Special Olympics has been a great place for him to socialize. It brings out the best in him."