On Super Bowl Sunday 2008, the courageous Long Beach Polar Bears once again braved the freezing waters to raise money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Metro New York.

Now in its eighth year, this event has developed into a huge, community-supported effort that draws thousands of people to jump into the ocean for a good cause. Through their passion and bravery, the Long Beach Polar Bears have raised an amazing amount of money for local kids. Last year, more than 2,500 participants raised more than $270,000. While final numbers for 2008 are not yet in, it is safe to say that with this year's fundraising efforts, the event will surpass the milestone mark of $1 million raised since its start.

Originally an innocent dip into the Atlantic Ocean prior to the big game by buddies Kevin McCarthy and Pete Meyers in 1998, word spread fast around town, and the following year the two were joined by brothers Mike and P.J. Bradley. Meanwhile, Mike and his wife, Patti had been searching for a fitting memorial for their beloved son Paulie, who was only four years old when he passed away in 1997. It was P.J. who asked "What if the annual swim became a fundraiser for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Metro New York - in loving memory and honor of Paulie who died away before his wish could get granted?"

So, ever since 2001, the members of the newly-formed Long Beach Polar Bears have jumped into the icy ocean with warm hearts, startled shouts and determination - all in the spirit of helping kids with life-threatening medical conditions.

"When Mike and I first got involved with Kevin and Pete we were in such deep grief and we were trying to find something fitting to remember Paulie," says Patti Bradley. "Having participated in fundraisers with Make-A-Wish, we knew it was going to be for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, but we had no idea what we wanted it to be. Paulie gave this to us, we work so long and so hard on planning this out, that we do not have time to grieve."

Continues Patti, "Someone came up to me on the boardwalk and said 'this is a phenomenon' and they are absolutely right. It is amazing to see the progression [of this event], and this is a gift from Paulie. I am always so busy running around, and this was the first year I stopped what I was doing, and was able to sit quietly and feel the energy. It truly is a phenomenon. It was the perfect day, and hey - even the Giants won!" she adds.

This year, for the second time in a row, a group of dedicated Make-A-Wish Foundation of Metro New York staff members joined the Long Beach Polar Bears in their fearless jump into the water. They were joined by Make-A-Wish volunteer and Miss New York International 2008, Jessica Bryant, in her official capacity.

It's not too late to log on to www.superbowlsplash.kintera.org and add to the donations in honor of Paulie Bradley, helping make more wishes come true for children with life-threatening medical conditions at a time when they and their families need hope, strength and joy the most.