My name is Jay Cooke, and I am a follower of Jesus Christ—This is my identity. 

I am a 2nd Lieutenant in the Marine Corps and US Naval Academy graduate. In college I majored in chemistry and played Sprint Football. The moral, mental, and physical challenges of the academy were often overwhelming and I struggled early on with homesickness, eating disorders, and depression.  I struggled to find my identity and realized how weak my foundation was. I crumbled like a house built on sand. During my Junior(2/C) year I found Navy FCA and a local church that pulled me up and showed me the saving Grace and Love of God and how He is always with us through every trial. It was not until college that my faith became my own and I truly started pursuing Jesus. 

I was raised Christian and always went to church but it was not until I got to college and faced these overwhelming challenges that I realized my need for a Savior. Navy FCA was my safe haven during the chaotic week (Tuesday Nights). Going from school to practice to homework is daunting for midshipmen and we often would not think we had an hour to spare. But those who came each week left renewed and encouraged. 

Navy FCA is greatly underfunded. Thus, I am going to run as many miles as I can in the month of August (before I leave for TBS in September) to raise money for Navy FCA. My goal is 300 miles (~10 miles a day). Some days may be longer, some shorter. But I am asking you to please support this life changing ministry if God puts it on your heart. 

Thank you so much!!

-Jay