Take the plunge for a purpose!
Polar Bear Plunge Fundraiser | March 14, 2026 | NJ
POTS stands for Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome — yeah, that's a mouthful. Basically, it's a condition where your heart rate goes haywire when you stand up, and it messes with your blood flow. It mostly shows up during the teen years and affects young women more than anyone else.
Researchers have found that monthly new cases of POTS have increased by five times since COVID-19.
What Even is POTS?
POTS diagnosis usually requires seeing a specialist — like a cardiologist or neurologist who knows about autonomic disorders. Those specialists aren’t always easy to find or afford, especially if you don’t live near a major medical center.
The Struggle
POTS affects an estimated 1 to 3 million people in the United States, including an estimated 1 in 100 teenagers. Studies show POTS predominantly affects white (93%) females (94%). However, this statistic likely reflects underdiagnosis in Black and other minority populations rather than true prevalence.
The Stats
Black teens often wait much longer to get a POTS diagnosis than white teens do. Sometimes their symptoms get brushed off as stress, anxiety, or even just “being dramatic” instead of being taken seriously as a real medical issue.
Real Talk
Influencers with POTS
Solange Knowles
Halsey
Katie Ledecky
Jameela Jamil
Violet Affleck
Sadie Applegate
Meet Your Plunge Leader
Autumn Alston is a high school senior majoring in dance. Her passion for dance began at a young age and has been nurtured through opportunities such as performing Off-Broadway and attending Ailey Camp.
Beyond the stage, Autumn’s personal health journey has deeply shaped her goals and perspective. Living with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) has affected her daily life and challenged the way she performs as a dancer, requiring strength, adaptability, and perseverance. Rather than allowing these obstacles to limit her, Autumn has used them as motivation to better understand the body and its ability to heal.
In college, she plans to major in health sciences and pursue a career in occupational therapy, with the goal of supporting youth facing life-limiting illnesses. Through her work, Autumn hopes to help others rebuild strength, regain confidence, and feel like themselves again both physically and emotionally.
Let’s dive in
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Event Overview
Join our inaugural Polar Bear Plunge to raise funds and awareness for children and young adults with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). Brave the icy waters, have fun with friends, and make a difference in your community.
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Event Details
Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026
Time: TBD
Location: TBD
Registration Fee: $25
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How it Works
Register online via the form below or on-site.
Take the plunge into the chilly water!
Warm up with hot cocoa, snacks, and live entertainment afterward.
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Fundraising Goal
Help us raise $5000 to support families with POTS-related expenses. Whether taking the plunge or donating from afar, every dollar counts toward making a real impact.