West Caldwell ‘Hero’ Earns Award From NJ Congresswoman

WEST CALDWELL, NJ — A West Caldwell community member is among 25 people being honored as a “hero” by U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill as 2023 draws to a close.

Julie Maykish of West Caldwell is among Sherrill’s “2023 Heroes of NJ-11.”

As part of the awards, residents of the state’s 11th Congressional district were asked to nominate “everyday heroes” in their lives. After an outpouring of submissions, 25 were chosen as this year’s honorees.

According to a news release from the congresswoman, Maykish was nominated by her spouse, Michael Maykish, who wrote:

"Julie Maykish is a Pediatric Occupational Therapist who has been in practice for 40 years. During that time she has provided Occupational Therapy services to autistic and developmentally delayed children and their families. Julie has been at the forefront in using sensory integration techniques to help these children function at the highest possible level in order to have more meaningful lives and to reduce the burden of care to their families and communities. Julie's passion and commitment is unwavering. She is consistently learning and refining her treatment approach and philosophy, incorporating the best current knowledge to support her clinical intervention. Julie's approach includes the social-emotional component of care, which improves the child's ability to relate to those around them. Julie has mentored countless other therapists and students, sharing with them her excitement about the potential to make a real difference in the lives of the people they serve. Julie truly does make a difference and her efforts make her a hero to the families she serves."

All 2023 Heroes live or work in NJ-11. They will receive a congressional certificate recognizing their contributions to the community. See the full list here.

“I am so moved by the amazing people throughout our district making a difference in the lives of others,” Sherrill said, noting that this year’s list includes teachers, community leaders, volunteers, health care providers, caregivers and more.

“All are inspiring citizens whose stories should warm everyone’s heart this holiday season,” she emphasized.

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