I was only a child when my beautiful first cousin, Julie Marks, passed away from leukemia. Because I was too young to understand what the word "leukemia" meant, I remember my mom just telling me that she was sick. Though Julie was "sick" throughout her high school years, she never let her diagnosis slow her down. She had made plans for the future and they did not include fighting a disease like leukemia. 
I will always remember Julie's amazing smile and this special twinkle she had in her eye. Where she gathered the courage and strength to fight this disease for over three years is unknown to me. How could such a young lady be so strong? At the age of 15-16-17, I know I didn't have that. I am running in Paris to honor Julie because her bravery and courage touched and inspired more people than she would ever know. From the doctors at the hospital, to her classmates, to her family, and neighbors, Julie was a hero to many. Though Julie has been gone for many years, she will never be forgotten.
No comments:
Post a Comment