About Julia

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At just 20 years old, Julia Hockey Mazur faced the daunting diagnosis of stage 4 metastatic melanoma in July 2023. Refusing to give up, Julia confronted cancer with unparalleled courage, mirroring her approach to life's challenges. Throughout her arduous struggle, she radiated positivity, often expressing gratitude to her mother, Carey, for the blessings in her life that others might not have. Julia’s optimism extended beyond her personal struggle; she envisioned a future where she could extend a helping hand to others in need once she conquered her illness.  Tragically, Julia succumbed to her illness just a few months later, in November 2023. In honor of her legacy, Julia's Kindness Crew emerged, dedicated to continuing her mission of spreading goodwill. Julia's resilience remains an inspiration, reminding us all to persevere in the face of adversity.

In her brief 20 years on Earth, Julia embraced life to the fullest. An undeniable overachiever, she was on track to graduate from college a year ahead of schedule, boasting a double major. Julia's vibrant personality was characterized by her passionate interests, which she pursued with unwavering zeal. Whether it was her fervent devotion to hockey, her adoration of Olivia Rodrigo's music, her affinity for potatoes, her amazing sewing abilities, or her fascination with all things purple and butterflies, Julia's love for these elements infused her life with hope and joy. Purple and butterflies were constants in her world, reflecting her unique spirit and boundless enthusiasm.

Despite her youth, Julia possessed the wisdom and skill of an old soul. With a passion for sewing, she had a remarkable ability to craft anything imaginable. From her own prom dresses to attire for special events, Julia's creativity knew no bounds. Yet, her most cherished creations were her custom hockey jerseys. Recognizing hockey jerseys were made mostly for men, Julia took matters into her own hands, adding sequins and lace to transform standard jerseys into unique pieces that reflected her personality and style. Her talent and ingenuity allowed her to bring her vision to life, making her mark both on and off the ice.

Julia's passion for ice hockey ran deep, igniting her desire to build a career within the sport. Her journey began at just 13 years old when she joined the Ice Crew for the Wilkes Barre Scranton Penguins, immersing herself in the world she loved. By 17, she had expanded her involvement, working at both a local hockey shop and an ice rink. With dedication and determination, Julia delved into the intricacies of hockey gear, mastering skills such as skate sharpening with remarkable proficiency. Her commitment and hands-on experience laid the foundation for her aspirations in the hockey industry, fueling her ambition to leave an indelible mark in the sport she adored.

Julia's passion for hockey was so profound that she made a bold decision to legally change her middle name to "Hockey." This symbolic gesture not only reflected her deep dedication to the sport but also served as a unique way to emphasize her commitment when pursuing career opportunities in the hockey industry. With a touch of humor, Julia would proudly declare, "Hockey is my middle name!"—Over time, she became affectionately known as "Hockey" to many within her circle, a fitting tribute to her love for the game.

Julia's authenticity shone brightly in her interactions with others. Despite not always fitting into conventional molds, she was known for reaching out to the underdog and extending a welcoming hand, Julia touched countless lives with her genuine kindness. She became the embodiment of the support and acceptance she had yearned for herself, ensuring that everyone felt valued and included. With her infectious smile, contagious laugh, and quick wit, Julia's presence brought joy and warmth to those around her.

When someone remarked, "the world needs more Julia," it encapsulated the profound impact she had on those around her. It's a sentiment we aim to embrace and embody—to emulate Julia's kindness, to spread joy and magic wherever we go. Julia's unwavering resilience and commitment to others serve as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us all to persevere and continue her legacy of compassion and positivity. Just as Julia never gave up, we too will persist, striving to make the world a better place one act of kindness at a time.