About:
In 2009, the Cooper Trooper Foundation was initiated after Rod and Missy Cook's youngest son, Cooper, was diagnosed with a rare type of cancer as an infant. The Cook's realized that through their traumatic journey, there was a huge need for hospital-based sibling resources for parents. CTF ensures that all members of the family are cared for by distributing the Cooper Trooper Caring and Courage Kit to siblings of children diagnosed with cancer. These kits are provided with the intention of celebrating sibling's strength and courage, providing education, and enhancing total family care.
During their son's diagnosis and treatment, the Cook's became aware of the lack of support for pediatric cancer research. In spite of the fact that cancer remains the leading cause of disease related death in children, there is minimal funding designated for this cause. It is the great hope of The Cooper Trooper Foundation to have no families left to support - for researchers to find the cure to all pediatric cancers. In order for this hope to ever become a reality, more money must be designated for this cause. Therefore, the Cooper Trooper Foundation financially contributes to pediatric cancer research through an Endowed Fund at Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt.
