In memory of Gwen E. Botson · November 16, 2004–March 2, 2024
Ride the Wave. Change a Life.
Gwen faced cervical, ovarian, and uterine cancer at 17 with the same courage she brought to every wave and every lacrosse field. Her story doesn't end here.
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Gwen's Story
She was 17. She changed everything.
"She wanted her battle to help others. That's exactly what we're doing."
She surfed waves, played lacrosse, and faced something no one should face alone. Gwen battled cervical, ovarian, and uterine cancer with grace, grit, and an unbreakable spirit. Her story doesn't end here, it lives in every family we support.
Read Her Full StoryGwen's Wave Keeps Moving
8+
Families Supported
Outer Banks families with children battling rare diseases
6
Scholarships Awarded
Educational support in Gwen's name for students who overcame significant challenges
2+
Community Events
Bringing the Outer Banks together for a cause
What We Do
Programs Built on Purpose
Scholarships & Education
We award scholarships to students in the Outer Banks community who demonstrate resilience, community spirit, and academic drive — values Gwen embodied every day.
Learn More
Community Outreach & Events
From surf fundraisers to awareness walks, we bring the Outer Banks community together to support families facing rare childhood diseases and honor Gwen's legacy.
See Events
Official Merchandise
Gwen E. Botson Foundation Apparel
Show your support everywhere you go. Every purchase helps fund scholarships and community programs in Gwen's memory.
Shop NowMake an Impact
Your donation keeps Gwen's wave going.
Every dollar supports Outer Banks families with children battling rare diseases, which helps with medical travel, daily essentials, and the knowledge that they are not alone.
Gwen E. Botson Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. All donations are tax-deductible.
Your donation helps with:
- Medical travel costs for families
- Daily essentials during treatment
- Scholarships in Gwens name
- Community awareness events