#464: SPOTIGHT: Julie Sorenson

#464: Julie Sorenson 

May 5, 2026

A Backbeat of Community 

Question for Julie:  

Is there someone in your life that has UNEXPECTEDLY shaped your way of viewing the world, humanity, or the challenges you face?  What happened in the process to turn “unexpected” into extraordinary for you? How do you carry that influence today?

Julie's Response:  

In 2023 we moved my parents to assisted living due to my mom’s Parkinson’s disease progression. There, I met the Activities Director, Edgar, whose joy radiated from his entire being. Anytime I walked into the building, Edgar would take a moment to yell out hello to me by name with a huge smile, whether he was in the middle of an activity or a conversation. He did this for all the family members and staff and most importantly, he saw and cared for each resident, treating them with dignity, respect and authentic love. When they brought in live music, Edgar would dance with the residents, getting them up and moving with his fun energy and presence. Whenever my parents had guests over—whether for a meal or a trishaw ride—he would stop by to take a photo, print a color 8½×11 copy, and hand one to each guest before the visit ended.

We now have a collection of these oversized photos in my dad’s apartment. We were not surprised to learn that Edgar was also a chaplain, so he eagerly performed a renewal of my parents' vows on their 60th wedding anniversary. Later, he sang to my mom at her bedside in her final days. 
 

Sadly, Edgar passed away unexpectedly last spring. I attended his funeral and learned from his daughter that his favorite quote was, “Don’t let your circumstances dictate your joy.” With that philosophy, he encouraged his family to “stand upon their circumstances with joy.” I love that visual. I felt this in his presence. This life lesson has stayed with me as I continue to look for the light and the joy in difficult times. If I can carry just a fraction of the care for others that he modeled, this influence will positively impact my life and those around me.