Julia’s generosity and empathy
March 11, 2021
Kathleen Hogan was a gifted artist/photographer friend of mine who in her early 50s was diagnosed with brain cancer. When I mentioned to Julia that I was taking Kathleen to dinner in Sausalito, Julia asked if she could join us. A few years previously Kathleen had done a brilliant photo/portrait of Julia, a birthday gift from me and my husband Craig.
Because Kathleen’s illness was progressing rapidly, we arrived at the restaurant two hours later than the time I’d asked Julia to be there. Since I didn’t have any way of contacting her ( no cell phone) I assumed Julia would have thought that the dinner was called off and left. But when we walked in, there she was, smiling up at us. As I apologized for being so late, Julia just hugged us, and, speaking warming said, “No, no, I’ve been reading my book and looking at the view.” At one point during the meal Julia produced an elegant gift bag filled with presents for Kathleen. Kathleen, a struggling artist and single mother of two was deeply touched and grateful for thiskindness.
After my friend Kathleen and dear sisterJulia died I harbored hope that the paths of these two talented, sensitive and loving people will cross again.
Because Kathleen’s illness was progressing rapidly, we arrived at the restaurant two hours later than the time I’d asked Julia to be there. Since I didn’t have any way of contacting her ( no cell phone) I assumed Julia would have thought that the dinner was called off and left. But when we walked in, there she was, smiling up at us. As I apologized for being so late, Julia just hugged us, and, speaking warming said, “No, no, I’ve been reading my book and looking at the view.” At one point during the meal Julia produced an elegant gift bag filled with presents for Kathleen. Kathleen, a struggling artist and single mother of two was deeply touched and grateful for thiskindness.
After my friend Kathleen and dear sisterJulia died I harbored hope that the paths of these two talented, sensitive and loving people will cross again.