'Victoria Arlen Day'

From now on, September 21 will be known as "Victoria Arlen Day" in New Hampshire.

Gov. John Lynch today issued the proclamation in honor of Arlen, a 17-year-old swimmer who attends Exeter High School.

Arlen, who lost the use of her legs after being afflicted with the spinal cord disease transverse myelitis, earned a gold medal and three silvers in the 2012 London Paralympics.

"Victoria is an inspiration," Lynch said.

Lynch issued the proclamation this afternoon at the school during a celebration attended by about 1,700 students. They broke out into a deafening cheer for Arlen.

"It's such an honor," said Arlen.

She swam to a first-place finish the 100-meter freestyle, setting a world record in the process. Arlen also won silver medals in the 50-meter freestyle, the 400-meter freestyle, and the 4 X 100-meter freestyle relay.

Exeter officials are holding a parade for Arlen on Oct. 13. It will include a ceremony at Swasey Parkway.

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