black orange and white butterfly on pink flower
black orange and white butterfly on pink flower

Keeping Hope Alive... a prodigal's journey to a restored life

About The Authors:

Carol Coen is a wife, mother, grandmother, author, and conference speaker committed to helping individuals overcome challenges and reach their full potential. Serving 20 years as Vice Chancellor of Workforce Development at San Jose/Evergreen Community College District, she brings extensive experience in education, workforce development, and nonprofit leadership. She has served her local church for more than forty years in roles including Sunday School Superintendent, Director of Women’s Ministry, Elder, and Board member. Her most challenging—and rewarding—role has been as a mother who against all odds faithfully prayed a prodigal child back into God’s purpose and plan.

Emily Seay is a wife and mother who shares her raw and deeply personal journey through trauma, loss, addiction, and exploitation – and the long road back to healing. When the father of her children tragically took his own life, the weight of grief pulled her back into addiction, leading her into the devastating reality of being trafficked. But her story doesn’t end there. Emily uses lessons learned from her past to help others see that no life is too far gone and no story is beyond redemption. She serves her local church as Director of Community Outreach, serving marginalized populations and leads S.A.R.A.H. (Sexual Abuse Recovery and Healing) groups supporting women who have experienced pain and trauma.