About Julie

Julie Johnston was born on May 4, 1984, and as soon as the doctor saw her tiny body, he knew something wasn’t quite right.  Her arms and legs were shorter than average, and she was diagnosed with dwarfism.  Her parents were told that she would probably not be able to walk, and would have difficulty doing other everyday activities.  At 15 months, Julie was also diagnosed with an eye condition that caused her to be legally blind.  But even as a child, Julie began to establish her trademark as a girl who is determined to succeed, no matter what challenge she is facing.  She not only learned to walk, but she went on to conquer things that no one thought possible.  With constant support and encouragement from her parents, she became a well adjusted, successful young woman.

At age 16, Julie went through a series of orthopedic surgeries.  This involved a lengthy hospital stay, and spending 4 ½ months in a body cast.  As a result, she now stands at her current height of 3 feet.  In the same year of her surgeries, her parents divorced, and in the following year, complications with her eyesight left her with almost no vision at all.  But, throughout these major events in her life, Julie always amazed the world around her by approaching her obstacles with a positive attitude.  Her determination helped her to learn Braille in four months instead of the usual two years.  Despite her struggles with blindness, she excelled in school, and graduated with a 4.7 GPA.

Julie has a passion for writing that began at an early age.  At 16, her first work was published in Guideposts for Teens Magazine.  She has also been published in a book entitled Writing From the Heart, and she has contributed a story to Chicken Soup for the Christian Teenage Soul.  She is currently finishing her autobiography, and is hoping to have it published soon.  Julie has been interviewed for PBS, NPR (National Public Radio) Scholastic Action Magazine, and Texas Co Op Power Magazine.

Julie is devoting her life to spreading the valuable lessons she has learned.  She speaks to schools, churches, and other organizations around the country about overcoming adversity by trusting God, and maintaining a positive attitude.  She also encourages children and adults alike to accept and appreciate others for their uniqueness.  But, most of all, she teaches the importance of self respect and appreciation for the one-of-a-kind individual each of us was created to be.  Her quick wit and delightful sense of humor has kept her audiences hanging on her every word.  Her passion and enthusiasm has moved every crowd, and her beautiful smile warms the heart of everyone she meets.  An accomplished vocalist, Julie often helps convey her message through music.  She and her mother have recently released a new CD titled “We’re In This Thing Together”. It’s full of songs that will lift your spirit and inspire you.

Check out Julie’s website & blog:  www.littleandblind.com