Meet Julie and hear her story...

 

I am 63 years old, the mother of two married daughters, and grandmother to a 4yr old granddaughter and a 2yr old grandson. I was a military wife for 20yrs., I am a cancer survivor, and I was widowed suddenly when I was 56yrs old.

 

I married my college sweetheart after graduation, and we set off on the adventure of his career as a Naval Aviator. My job was to be supportive of him, hold down the fort, and keep the home fires burning. I did it without resentment and raised our girls, often without him. He always wanted to fly, and his second career was commercial aircraft. He got to do what he loved until the day he died. I’m proud of the role I played in support of that. It made me who I am - strong, independent, resilient, courageous. I’m proud of that too.

 

We asked her if she had anything to say to others about aging and this is what she had to say, "Aging is a funny thing. In my head, I am still young! I see my friends change in appearance, but not so much myself. I try to look my best and put my best self forward every day. My friends tell me I’m a “joyful” person. My faith has gotten me through the trials I’ve faced and I am truly grateful for each new day!"