Ethan Takes a Winter Plunge for Caring Unlimited

Darlene Huntress, Portland

Last Tuesday, on New Years Day, I watched Ethan join hundreds of seriously brave people at Gooch's Beach in Kennebunk to participate in Caring Unlimited's Annual Atlantic Plunge. That's right, plunge, as in plunge into the icy cold Atlantic Ocean. In January. In Maine. I was there and let me tell you- it was quite a sight to see.

Hundreds of people wearing shorts, t-shirts and bathing suits that were never meant to see the light of day on a freezing cold January morning, ready to take the plunge to raise awareness about domestic violence and raise money to support the important work of Caring Unlimited. It may seem like a heat wave today, but I can assure you, last week- it was barely 20 degrees outside. Brrr!

And there was our favorite candidate for U.S. Congress- Ethan Strimling- in one excruciating and unforgettably chilly moment, sprinting towards the cold water and diving in head-first. And then running back to shore at break-neck speed looking, well, very red and cold. With a big smile on his face in spite of the shock to his system. It was priceless.

Of course, no one should be surprised that Ethan actually volunteered to "take the plunge." He"s been diving in head-first his entire life to support people whose voices are rarely, if ever, heard. Whether they are victims of domestic violence, or kids in jail, or gritty Maine people struggling every day to earn a living for their families, Ethan has never hesitated to speak up, speak out, and DO SOMETHING. In fact, he's made it his life's work to do just that.

About Caring Unlimited:

60,000 Maine women are abused by their partners each year. In fact, domestic violence related homicides represent the majority of murders committed in Maine. Since 1977 Caring Unlimited has offered safety planning and support services for people seeking safety from domestic violence in York County. Over the years, thousands of women, their children and men have found safe haven and support through Caring Unlimited services, including the 24 Hour Hotline, Support Groups held throughout York county, Advocacy at four local courthouses, Emergency Shelter and the Transitional Housing and Services program and more.