Look Who’s Going Surfing!

Meet Karen of Portland, Oregon, winner of the Las Olas Surf Safari Scholarship that includes airfare and luggage donated by Sherpani a $500 giftcard from Athleta…

Nominated by Mark Wilson

Karen is an amazing wife and mother. She provided the strength that held our family together through one of the most difficult times a family could imagine.

For a year and a half our daughter Claire fought brain cancer. At one point she went into remission. We thought it was a good time for us to have another child. However, when it came time to announce to everyone the great news, we learned some bad news. Claire’s cancer was back and it was more than ever. For the next eight months it was surreal watching a life grow inside Karen and another life fight for her life.

In the end, Claire passed away two days before Anna (named by Claire) was born. Imagine the feelings a mother must have to have one child leave and know that you must be strong enough to deliver a new life and be a mother to a four year old boy (Luke).

I witness Karen do this with strength and poignancy that still gives me shivers five years later.

Karen is a great athlete that is always looking for the next challenge. I have often heard her mention surfing as a ‘wish’ activity. I can think of no one more deserving of a week learning to surf, perform yoga and having fun. She has always put our family before her wants and needs. I would love for her to get some time for herself.

Congratulations Karen—your strength is an inspiration. We’re thrilled you’ll be able to experience the joy of surfing with the amazing crew at Las Olas.

Click here to read about the other 9 finalists, all amazing women. Each will receive a $100 Athleta giftcard.