11/03/2026
14 years. It's hard to even wrap my head around that.
14 years ago, our world was turned upside down when Cooper was diagnosed with Kawasaki Disease. I can still remember the fear, the uncertainty, the hospital rooms, and the helpless feeling of watching your little boy go through something you never imagined he would have to face.
As a parent, you just want to protect your kids. You want to take away their pain, make everything better, and tell them it's all going to be okay. But sometimes life puts you in a place where you don't have the answers.
We learned a lot during those days. We learned how quickly life can change. We learned how strong a little boy could be. We learned the importance of family, faith, hope, and the incredible people who helped us through some of our darkest moments.
And somewhere along the way, that experience became something so much bigger than us. It became the reason Kawasaki Kids Foundation exists today.
Now here we are, 14 years later, and that little boy in the hospital bed is a SENIOR IN HIGH SCHOOL. Man, where did the time go?
Looking at his senior pictures and then looking back at those hospital photos brings up emotions that are hard to put into words. So much life has happened between those pictures. So many memories, challenges, laughs, tears, and moments I wish I could slow down.
I wouldn't wish what we went through on any family. But I can say that we came out of it stronger, with a different perspective on life and a purpose I never could have imagined.
Cooper, I'm so incredibly proud of the young man you've become. You may not realize it, but your story has touched more lives than you'll ever know. And because of you, we've had the privilege of walking alongside so many other Kawasaki families over the years.
14 years ago, I was just a scared dad praying his little boy would be okay.
Today, I'm a proud dad watching that same little boy get ready to take on the world.
And I couldn't be more grateful.
Love you, Coop. Always and forever. DJ Coop | 16 Yr. Old DJ & Entrepreneur