“Paying it forward” comes full circle

Waldwick girl gifts wheelchair to youngster and years later is helped by Foundation named in her honor

When ten-year-old Katie Brunner outgrew her wheelchair four years ago, she gifted it to another child in need, Julia M. Bommer, then 6 1/2 years old. The Brunner’s found out about Julia’s need for a new wheelchair and were only too happy to help. Little did the Brunner’s know that they were “paying it forward”. Sadly, not long after receiving Katie’s old wheelchair, Julia, who suffered from a rare kidney disease as well as Cerebral Palsy, passed away.

Fast forward three years. Denise Mitchell, Treasurer of the foundation established in Julia’s honor, Julia’s Butterfly Foundation, was reading a local community paper. There, she learned about Katie Brunner’s need for a handicapped accessible bathroom as well as several other projects to accommodate her growing needs. Denise knew that the foundation could help. She immediately picked up the phone and called the number. When she was put in touch with Katie’s mother, she explained that Julia’s Butterfly Foundation helps terminally and chronically ill children get the help they need to improve their lives and the lives of their families; often covering services and expenses not covered by medical insurance. When Denise further explained the origins of the foundation, Mrs. Brunner realized that Julia was the same little girl who Katie had given her outgrown wheelchair to a few years ago.

“As soon as Mrs. Brunner told me about the connection between Katie and Julia, I got the chills… I just knew we had to help this family…it was as if Julia guided us to this little girl” said Denise. Julia’s Butterfly Foundation donated $10,000.00 towards the bathroom remodel, partnering with members of the Waldwick community as well as Bjork Builders, a major contributor and contractor, to complete the project. Six months later, Katie and her family are delighted with their newly remodeled bathroom as well as a much needed entrance ramp. To express their gratitude, the Brunner family hosted a celebratory party for all who made it possible to improve their home and improve their lives. Kindness and gratitude have come full-circle.

– 637 Wyckoff Avenue – Wyckoff — NJ – 07481 Tax ID 206551407 501(c) 3 Tax Status
www.julia’sbutterflyfoundation.org