The Cook Family: Embracing Community, Adventure, and Advocacy in Fredericksburg

Nestled in the heart of Chancellor West, the Cook family epitomizes the spirit of togetherness, adventure, and community. With Janos, affectionately known as John and Jen, at the helm and their five vibrant children - Savannah (11), Charlotte– nicknamed Charlie (10)-- Harper (8), Chase (6), and Johnny (4)-- along with their foster dog "fails," Nala and Will, their home is a hub of love, laughter, and boundless energy. 

John and Jen's journey began with a chance encounter at a restaurant in Boston, Massachusetts. John, then a Marine on leave after a deployment, was captivated by Jen and sent a friend to chase her down for her number. With the assist, John procured those digits, and the two began conversing, ultimately leading to a lasting connection. Despite the distance, their bond flourished, culminating in marriage in 2011 following John's final deployment to Afghanistan. Their shared love for adventure and new experiences eventually led them to Fredericksburg after stints in Maine, Vegas, and other locales.

Both John and Jen bring diverse educational and career backgrounds to the table. John, a retired Lieutenant Colonel from the Marines, holds a bachelor's degree in economics. He now serves with the Department of Justice, while Jen, with a bachelor's in psychology, thrives as a real estate agent at Nest Realty Fredericksburg. 

"We both absolutely love our jobs," John said. Their passion for their respective careers shines through, adding depth and fulfillment to their lives.

The Cook household is a bustling hive of activity, with each child bringing unique interests and talents to the mix. Three children attend Saint Patrick's School, while Johnny, the youngest child, will soon join his siblings there. Harper attends Brock Road Elementary in the Special Education department. Savannah, the oldest child, is also quite the writer. 

"She recently had a poem published in a book that showcases her creativity and love for her family," Jen proudly shared. Charlie loves soccer and is learning to be a "mother's helper" to some neighborhood moms. Chase and Johnny play soccer, too, and love being outdoors playing with their best buddies next door, and Harper's journey with speech therapy and swimming highlights her resilience and zest for life. From soccer prowess to literary achievements, the Cook kids are a testament to determination and drive.

Along with being athletic and intelligent, the Cook kids know how to treat people with love and respect. Growing up with a special needs sister has already taught the children so much about life and how to be good friends. The family finds that Sally Phillips said it best when she summarized the experience of Harper's siblings: 

"The siblings of special needs children are quite special. Absolutely accepting and totally loving from birth, someone who is different mentally and has a different way of seeing the world, is a wonderful trait. It's a trait I wish there was another way of getting, but there isn't. And it does involve a degree of not having it fantastically easy."

Harper's journey is one of remarkable strength and courage.  Diagnosed with SYNGAP1, of which there are only about 1400 cases worldwide-- and only 250 cases in 2018 when Harper received her diagnosis-- is a rare genetic condition. Harper faces numerous challenges, including epilepsy, intellectual disability, mobility issues, and sensory sensitivities. 

"Harper is mostly non-verbal, she has epilepsy, intellectual disability, mobility problems, she elopes, has sensory problems, low muscle tone, choking risk, and more... pretty much all of the difficult things a little kid could have," Jen explained— Harper's infectious laughter and boundless spirit light up the Cook household despite these hurdles. 

Harper has a superpower and can make anyone smile, which seems to be a trend among kids with SYNGAP1. The SYNGAP1 Research Fund, based in California, is working hard daily for a cure or treatment. The Cooks hope it comes during Harper's lifetime. 

The family's dedication to Harper's well-being is evident. "We recently installed a pool that provides both recreation and therapy for Harper; it is the best form of PT for her," said Jen. She loves to swim!" Swimming in the neighborhood community pool helped Harper gain strength and ultimately taught her how to walk. 

"The doctors said Harper would not walk independently, but she has been exceeding expectations her entire life," John said. 

Jen and John's advocacy work for Harper and their involvement with families nationwide underscore their commitment to supporting and uplifting others facing similar challenges. The Cooks are raising awareness for SYNGAP1, as it could be potentially one of the most misdiagnosed genetic conditions. 

"Many people get an Autism diagnosis, but it could be something more," Jen explained. "It took us years to get Harper's diagnosis, and many tests were completed before finding SYNGAP1." The couple encourages anyone to keep advocating for their children.

"We now have a great support system across the country that we wouldn't have known existed had Jen not 'Googled' the condition," John explained. "Luckily, we connected with a family in California who had a son just a few years older than Harper– that family helped us immensely in the months following Harper's diagnosis."

"We hope to be that family for someone else," Jen said. "We hope to play a greater role in the special needs community here in Spotsylvania and Fredericksburg in the future, and my goal is to open an adaptive gym in the area for teens and adults with special needs."

Working out is Jen and John's passion, and they enjoy watching their kids learn to love it, too. 

"Harper would work at the gym once she graduates high school," Jen shared. "I want Harper to be successful, just like her siblings. She loves being given a task and is proud when she completes it!" Through the gym and their advocacy efforts, the Cooks aspire to be a source of hope for the special needs community in Fredericksburg and beyond.

Fredericksburg offers scenic beauty, historical charm, and a vibrant sense of community that enriches their daily lives. From exploring the Battlefield trails to indulging in local treats at the Battlefield Country Store, they've found a place they're proud to call home. Beyond the local attractions, though, what the Cooks cherish most is their close-knit neighborhood in Chancellor West, where neighbors are more than just acquaintances: they're some of their closest friends. With shared traditions like the annual Turkey Trot and the Fourth of July Pool Party, the community fosters a sense of belonging that enriches the lives of all who reside there.

As they continue to write their family's story in Chancellor West, the Cooks embody the spirit of adventure, resilience, and unwavering love that defines their family and community.

And they couldn't be more thankful for their outstanding community. 

"We're just so thankful for the support and love people have shown us as we navigate life and raising kids with a special needs sibling," explained Jen and John. "The rides to sports, their advocacy, dinners delivered during hard times. People just show up around here for us, and we are forever grateful."