Julia Marie Bommer (1999-2005)

Maureen, Julia’s Mom, once wrote, “ Sometimes when I would be out and about with Julia in her stroller, strangers would come up to me and say “Oh, what a beautiful baby!  How old is she?”  I would smile at them and agree that she was beautiful and then announce that she was six.  Usually the conversation ended abruptly as if the person I was speaking to either didn’t hear my answer or didn’t believe it.  I always smiled and thought to myself, if you only knew….”

Julia was born prematurely.  She suffered from a rare kidney disorder and subsequent Cerebral Palsy.  Julia was never able to walk or to talk.  She was dependent on a feeding tube as her primary source of nutrition.  But Julia was smart and she always found a way to let you know what she wanted!  She enjoyed the simple pleasures in life.  She liked playing with her Barbies and always wanted to be included in a game of hide and seek.  She was up for a long walk outside anytime of the year and spent many hours sitting on the porch swing visiting with family and kids in the neighborhood.  She never wanted to be left behind.  She loved riding in the car especially when a good song came on the radio that made everyone sing-a-long.    Anytime was a good time for a McDonald’s french fry!

Julia left an impression on all who met her.  Without ever uttering a word, she taught us that each day we have here together is a gift and a cause for celebration.  Julia helped us to realize that every life holds value.  She could bring out the best in each person.   We are all kinder, gentler, more compassionate and far more grateful for having known her.