Caroline Cooper is a writer, teacher, speaker, and musician. After spending several years at the University of Kansas, she graduated with a music education degree from the University of Texas in Arlington, achieving high honors. In 2009, Caroline received a Masters in Bible & Theology from Calvary Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri, also graduating with honors.
And, through most of her life, Caroline has struggled with depression and anxiety. After a very severe bout with depression in 2002, she checked into an outpatient program at a local psychiatric hospital. Combining what she learned during treatment with her deep faith and desire to live a Christian life, she experienced firsthand God’s powerful restoration. She also learned the importance of a daily focus on her emotional health. As a part of Caroline’s post-hospital therapy, she began journaling what she had learned and documented the tools that were essential in her ongoing recovery. Those writings were compiled into a book built on the analogy of a boxing match. Caroline believes there are many similarities between fighting the disease of depression, or other emotional illnesses, and battling it out in the boxing ring. Many times, the recovery process leaves you feeling bruised and broken, but the pain is worth it and is the beginning of a journey towards real recovery. “In This Corner” was published by Tate Publishing Company in 2005. (www.tatepublishing.com) The book not only serves as a reminder to Caroline of her own journey, but was written in workbook format so others could us it as a guide and a source of encouragement.
Recently, God has inspired Caroline to form a ministry inspired by this book. Caroline and her team are excited about fulfilling God’s calling to provide resources for persons suffering from emotional issues. Resources and networking events will be available for faith-based organizations that offer support groups or other ministries related to emotional illness. The “In This Corner Ministry” website is www.inthiscorner.org.
Caroline enjoys opportunities to share her testimony. She is currently pursuing speaking engagements and is prepared to give presentations on the following topics: living with depression/anxiety, successful marriage and parenting, stories and teachings from the Bible, living as a Christian. Caroline is an experienced speaker and a competent communicator in the Toastmasters International organization.
Because of her love of music, Caroline has served in music ministry as a director of children’s choirs, handbells, and orchestra. She also is an experienced composer/arranger of music for worship and special performances. Caroline also enjoys Bible study and has taught Sunday School classes for all ages.
Caroline and her husband Harry were married in 1983 and have four children. They enjoy spending time together as a family, playing bridge, games, and watching movies.
Caroline is looking forward to contributing insights from her experiences and knowledge to reporters or other writers.