Julie Hamilton

A WORD FROM JULIE’S BROTHER, JOHN MATTHEWS

Friends and family –

Anyone who knows me or has heard stories about me from my sister, Julie, knows that I am profoundly sarcastic.  I’m like Madge the manicurist in the old Palmolive ads – I’m soaking in it.  

Sometimes, though, life dictates a different direction. It certainly has for Julie and her husband, Fred. I need to set aside the jokes and be straight with you.  The Hamiltons need your help.

Julie is battling ALS, a disease that has taken her legs and will eventually take her life. Fred, her husband of only a few years, works diligently to stave off his overwhelming grief so he can make Julie as comfortable as possible. He strives to steal as many moments as he can with her while he can.   

Julie’s recent accident in which she broke her leg has cemented her future.  She will not be walking or attempting to walk again. She can no longer ride in a standard car, SUV, or minivan.  She is now tied forever to a power wheelchair. Her dependence on this chair means her world is only as big as the end of her sidewalk. 

Julie and Fred need to purchase a wheelchair-accessible van that will allow Fred to transport Julie wherever she needs to go. To the doctor. To the grocery store.  To do the mundane things that the rest of us completely take for granted.  And yes, to take Julie to their beloved Maine occasionally, because visiting one’s happy place is every bit as restorative and healing as anything modern medicine can accomplish.

The bottom line is this:  Julie and Fred will sell their car as a down payment, but they will still need about $45,000 dollars to buy the van.  If there were any other way to get this done,  I wouldn’t be asking for your help.  All I can do is implore  you to walk a mile in their shoes.  Guess what? You can’t, and neither can they.  But consider what the size of your world would be if it ended at your home’s front door.  

Please help me help Julie and Fred – and thank you for your love and support.    

John Matthews

Bratty Little Brother/Brother-in-law