To my Judle Noodle
My most precious Judle-Noodle
I remember bringing you home from the hospital, sitting on my couch, crying tears of happiness at your arrival into our lives. You had come early and there was no one to help me out, but I knew that we would be fine. We were home and you were mine.
I watched with pride as you gurgled and grew into a stocky, gorgeous boy who embraced every moment to the full, pudgy hands exploring everything, never missing a beat. You loved everyone around you with random hugs and lap visits and you charmed your way into random people's hearts. I wondered how I could have been so lucky to get such a happy, loving, friendly child.
I could not believe that life could be so cruel when I found you cold and lifeless in your cot last Saturday morning. The autopsy revealed that you developed myocarditis from a common viral infection which pretty much feels like a lightning bolt.
The gaping hole you have left in our hearts is unbearable. Life will never ever be the same without your bright blue eyes, contagious laugh and unending enthusiam for anything and everything. The journey from you wriggling in my belly to clinging onto my hips has been the most fulfilling and amazing one and I will never be the same again.
On a practical note to my clients - I will be shooting the weddings that I have committed to and will continue to photograph life to the full. This experience has emphasized to me exactly how important photos are - at the end of the day they really are the only thing that you have left over.
It's hard tonarrow down 18 months of so many different phases and expressions into a few images but these are a few of my favourite images from your way too short life.
The beginning of the journey in Cuba. Photo taken by Monica Dart
Comments
Jules, I have no words, my heart is breaking for you - thinking of you all the time, you are in my prayers ....
Jules, that is beautiful. What a gorgeous collection of photos of your little man, they capture the essence of who he was- an awesome little guy! My heart breaks for you both.
Jules, you are so beautiful and so brave. I am amazed at your courage. An inspiration to everyone in your life.
All our love
Nadia and Andrew
Jules and Simon, we met at Debbie and Jack's on Christmas day 2008. What a wonderful day that was and so special to share it with a young family. My 3 boys loved your little man. We were devastated by the terrible news.(the same happened to my brother's child about 10 years ago). our hearts are with you. Love to both you and Simon. Adrienne, Neil, Sebastian, Alexander and Zacharie. x
I'm so sorry Jules.
Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with you both. We have no doubt that Jude looks down at us from heaven and his warm smile be felt on each ray of Sunshine.
Gods Bless,
Mitch & Nads
Dear Jules
You don't know me, but I have been following your blog for a while. I can't even begin to imagine what you must be going through, but I am incredibly saddened by your loss. My heart goes out to you and your family and you will be in my thoughts. Your boy was gorgeous. (((hugs))) Karin
What a beautiful tribute to your precious boy. My heart is so saddened by your loss, may the Prince of Peace bring comfort in such a difficult time.
Praying for you
Megan
MEMORIAL SERVICE: Just let you all know that a memorial service will be held for Jude this Sunday, 14 March. You can find more info on the Facebook group 'Jude Comley, you stole our hearts! Smile on, little one.'
Jude the dude will always Rock my world. Jules, I'm so happy you and I experienced Cuba together - and Jude was all part of that incredible time. What baby, before he's even born gets to go somewhere so exciting? He has done so much, experienced so much and touched so many lives in only 18 little months. And how lucky to have such cool parents who showered him completely with just so much love. I love you guys, xxx
Such lovely photographs Jules, he was such a precious little soul. Our thoughts are with you every minute of every day, we are so devestated for you both.
All our love.
Looking at these pictures of Jude makes me as a photographer appreciate more and more how valuable these moments are that we capture for people. Jude will live on in your minds because of these beautiful pictures. Again, me and Zani are praying for you guys.
Jules, you are an amazing photographer and a beautiful friend. What a lovely letter, what a contagious smile… may your memories give you strength and the love of those around you help you through the days ahead. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Mary xx
Jules, you are an amazing photographer and a beautiful friend. What a lovely letter, what a contagious smile� may your memories give you strength and the love of those around you help you through the days ahead. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Mary xx
Dear Precious Jude
The little time you spent on this earth, you touched everyone's heart I am sure because the few seconds i managed to take a peak at you one sunny day, i crumbled at your gentleness and beautiful smile. I am humbled by our short meeting! The angels in heaven are blessed to have such perfection in their midst!
Dear Jules
My love, you are so strong and will only rise from this an even stronger person. My heart and soul and mind is filled with thoughts and feelings for you always. Love you my dear friend!!!
may God comfort you all the way, x
Jules I have been thinking of you and Simon all week during this terrible time. Your strength is inspiring. We are sending you and Simon so much love to carry you through this time. Love Brenda x
Jules, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this very sad time. I cannot begin to imagine what you must be going through. What amazing pictures of Jude.....he was a truly gorgeous little boy. Lots of love, Clare
Precious friend, I have already left other messages, but I just can't stop thinking about you and Si - and how much I love you.
What beautiful photos... of the most beautiful people I know...
Love always,
Lees
Such a beautiful boy. I'm so sorry we never got the chance to meet him but I feel as though we know him a little through your heartfelt words and stunning photos.
Much love from your friends in Maidenhead xx
I don't know what to say, apart from I'm sorry! He was such a beautiful boy, your pictures are beyond amazing!!!
My heart breaks for you. I don't even have a child of my own, so I can't begin to imagine how devastating this is for you. When I saw the news on Facebook I started crying, even though we've never met. Be strong. I wish I could do something for you. Love Kat
his is the BRIGHTEST STAR that shines in the sky for you at all times.....just look UP !!! you are in my thoughts and prayers and only a phone call away if ever you are in need.....x
They are amazing pics Jules, he was an amazing child and the words you wrote above are perfect.
Jules, you do not know me, but I've got tears rolling down my eyes, I also have a son, Jean-luke , who has just turned two years old, I can just imagine what you must be going through, thank you for sharing this, it has motivated me to start taking more pictures of my children and appreciate them even more! You are in my prayers, May God give you the strength to get through this with HIM
I have a cute pic of Chloe and Jude in the bath together, so although I haven't met your little boy, I feel as if I have, especially with your beautiful photos. Thinking of you and your family.
Dearest Jules,
I have not stopped crying since I heard the news! This tribute to your amazing, precious boy is INCREDIBLE. The photos are beautiful.
I met your little sunshine in Feb and was amazed at his tenacity and gorgeous smile! I will remember that always. My heart aches for your loss and will continue to pray for strength and courage. You are constantly in my thoughts.
All my love,
Lamb (Mich)
Jules and Si, you are two special people who brought into this world a special little boy you named Jude. How appropriate is the meaning of his name 'praise and thanks' as even at this time of such sorrow, you both are strong enough to be so appreciative of such tremendous happiness Jude gave you during his short life. Our thoughts are with you. Anne & Arthur
My heart goes out to Jules and Simon. The brief moments that I was lucky enough to share a glance with Jude were very special, his amazing eyes held a consciousness, joy and wisdom beyond his young age. I cant fathom what it must be like to loose someone so precious to you. Knowing Simon I am certain that you both lived and shared every moment with your son to the fullest. My thoughts are with you each day of this trying time.
Dear Jules, I can't even begin to imagine what you must be going through, but I am incredibly saddened by your loss. My heart goes out to you and your family and you will be in our prayers and thoughts, god bless.
Jules & Simon - I have a little girl who is turning one on Sunday! She is our world & I wouldn't know what I'd do if she were taken from us... You are an inspiration, blogging about this tragedy, such courage. You are in my thoughts. My heart breaks for you. xxx
Jules, you do not know me, but I cannot begin to tell you how sorry I am for you and all your family in this terrible time. May God give you strength in this time and you will be in my prayers.
Jules, you do not know me, but I just wanted to join in with all those praying for you in this difficult time...My prayer is that you will be able to always see God through this terrible storm in your life, may He shine on you like a lighthouse and show you how to continue life's journey with His guidance...
There are no right words anyone can say...
I am so, so sorry for your loss.
Sent with love: Anja
Gutted!! Totally and utterly gutted for both of you and your entire family. Your epitaph is not only extremely moving, it's beyond the bounds of pure superhuman - your third paragraph, above all else.
My heart and Andrea's goes out to you and your family.
Our love and support go out to you and your family, you can tell from the pics that he knew how much you love him! Thinking of you, Brett and Andrea Florens
Lovely words and photographs Jules. My sincere condolences to both you & Simon.
R.I.P. little Jude
Jules, you don't know me, but I came across your website while during some research for my wedding. I am truly saddened by your loss. Your tribute to your special angel has really touched me. May you and your family be granted all the comfort, love and strength during this sad time.
Love
Rochelle
Jules and Simon, beautifull and brave parents of Jude forever. Im so deeply deeply sad for your loss.
With love and constant thoughts,
Debbie x
Jules & Simon
I do not know you, but what I do know is that Jude must have been one of the happiest luckiest little boys with 2 wonderful loving parents like yourselves! I know that our Father in Heaven will take care of him and that He will also hold you two very close to His heart. I pray that you will find the strength to accept what happened and that the memory of your little boy will always be alive in your hearts!
Jules, what a stunningly beautiful set of images to celebrate his short life. When I look at these images of him, I can see him sitting on Gods lap happily smiling down on his mom and dad thankful for what he could share with you. I am amazed at your courage and take my hat off to you. You are a true professional and a real inspiration! Thinking of you and praying for you. Take care NATASHA
Jules, I have no way of saying how much this news has affected me, and how much I've been thinking about your family :(
This is a beautiful post, and those photos are breathtaking, they really are.
Jules, Simon,
We are so so so sad to hear your devastating news. Our thoughts and love are with you in this terrible time.
It is hard to find words. Your photos are like a piece of heaven discovered on earth. Jude, rest in piece, little bird.
Anne and Andrew (Maidenhead)
This is a beautiful, beautiful memory of a beautiful life. We are so sorry for your loss and extend our love and thoughts to both of you. xo
I do not know you guys but got this forwarded to me and I cant stop thinking about you. I am pregnant now and feel my little boy live inside of me everyday and after reading this I actually realise what a great miracle this is because anything can happen any second! We are all just given to each other for a certain amount of time. some for a little longer than others. I feel so terribly sad for you but pray that God will give you the strenght to deal with everything on your way of healing! My heart goes out to you and your families!!
Dear Simon & Jules
We are so sad to to hear about your loss. Our thoughts are with you.
Love Gordon & Liza
I dont know you but my tears flow! Feel with you in this sad time. He looked like an awesome little guy!! I pray that God will be with both of you.
Hold onto the love you have for your wonderful little boy. He is still with you, just close your eyes and let him comfort you
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Dear Jules & Simon, I do not know you personally,
(but feel like I do know you as a family), because
Michael, always spoke so highly of you and with such
fondness for you all!My heart feels broken for your
loss of Jude. I hope that you will find comfort and peace
in the good times and fond memories you made as a
family together. Heaven has another Angel.
Love, Dinkie
i havent had the pleasure of knowing you personally but i am very good friends with your nephew matthew and when he tole me of your loss, i simply had to tell you how sorry i am. its a huge loss to lose someone so young and so suddenly and i find it impossible to imagine. these pictures are beautiful and im sure he would have lived a full and happy life but now he is with god who will look after him preciously until you once more meet again. my thoughts and prayers are with you both at this difficult time. may god bless you and your family. RIP JUDE XX
I have never cried so much in my entire life, but you truly created a memorial that anyone one would be sincerely emotional about. I was never privileged enough to meet my little cousin but looking at the legendary aunt and uncle I've got I can only imagine that he was a legend too. Your amazing people and Jude will always be my little cousin. and you will always be in my prayers.
from love Matt
Jules and Simon my heart broke when i heard of this tragedy on saturday, and my thoughts have been with you ever since. I remember meeting Jude when he still fitted in Simon's palm...what a beauty. I always thought of you as an amazing self sacrificing mother and i can't bear that you should go through such pain. My thoughts are with the 2 of you and Jude, always.
I am so very very sorry to hear of your loss. Your beautiful boy was clearly a bright light and source of continuous joy in your lives. I pray that God will comfort you through this terribly sad time, words cannot express how my heart is breaking for you.
Oh Jules, I do not know you and can not imagine what you are going through. I teared up reading your blog and just wanted to let you know I will be praying for your family. My heart is breaking for you. Your little Boy is surely a angel looking over you...
Jules, I know you for such a short time now and have come to know you and Jude as amazing beings. The light just shone out of him, always smiling and always socialising...the friendliest baba i've known, and with such a quiet intelligence I've rarely seen!!I am so sorry that you have had to experience something this heartwrenching. My thoughts are with you and Simon, and I wish for you the strength to get through it.You were blessed with an angel and the wonderful memories you share will keep him alive. Rest in Peace beautiful boy...
Jules and Simon,
You have both been in my thoughts and prayers ever since we heard. Your strength and desire to celebrate your little boys life is incredible. I wish there were words to express how sorry we are. Even though I have only seen you briefly Jules, never met you Simon and never had the privilege of meeting Jude, you have all touched me deeply and I will continue to pray for you. You are an inspiration Jules. Your pictures are not only beautiful in so many ways, but a blessing to all those that you have photographed. I pray that you will know the love and strength of God always.
Jules-
Thank you for sharing these beautiful words and photographs with the world. We were so sorry to learn of your tragic loss, and we are keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Dear Si & Jules
We are deeply sorry to hear the terribly sad news about your beautful and gorgeous Jude. Our hearts are full of pain and sadness. Jules, your words and images are too beautiful. Jude was certainly a very happy, content and loving little baba and he was lucky to have such wonderful & caring parents. You are constantly in our thoughts and prayers.
All our love
Sean & Tracey
Jules, My heart has been aching constantly since I read this on Saturday, I don't know how are even breathing. I am broken and I only met you for 2 hours. That you are grateful and not angry amazes me. You truly are phenomenal. God seems to want to keep the best ones for himself and by the smile on your precious boy's face, he truly looked like an angel that came to visit earth.
You are constantly in our thoughts.
Jax and Stix
Jules, I cry everytime I think of you and the precious baby you've lost. But through all the sadness you have been an inspiration to me. I have found a stronger love for my baby boy I did not know existed. You have made me (and Jason) realized that we should try harder every day to love and enjoy life with Thomas. We are not taking our happiness for granted anymore. Thanks for making us realize this. We still pray for you every day.
Simon and Jules, your pain must be unbearable, I am so sorry. Our hearts are very sore for you. You are in our thoughts every day.
Mike and Meg Massingham
There's a safe space here if you and Simon need it, precious girl. Sending you love and strength. You will get through this. We love you.
Dear Simon and Jules
I am deeply sorry to hear about your son. Can only imagine the pain you must be feeling. I am keeping you in my prayers.
Seth Alfino (CSA and associates)
Dearest Jules, my heart is aching! I can't imagine how hard this time is but you are so courageous, I respect you so much. Praying for you, truly. And praising God that even in times of hardship you are using the phenomenal talents He's given you, love to you Jules!!
Jules and Simon.
Our hearts are with you and your families at this sad sad time - He is and always will be a beautiful person who live life to full and embraced every moment - Just like his amazing parents.
Sometimes God needs his Angels sooner.
Anna and George
Dearest Jules and Simon.
We are so so devastated by your loss and can't believe that Jude was here for such a short time. The only thing I kept hanging onto is that he's up there happy and safe with your mom and his big cousin Matthew. Jules you will see him again and be able to hug and kiss him again - you just have to wait a bit to do it. God bless my sweetpea girl. lots of love always constance, brian, sarah and belle xxxx
Jules, We are so sorry to hear about the loss of your beautiful baby boy and can't imagine what you must be going through. You and Simon are constantly in our thoughts and prayers.
(((HUGS)))
I am so sorry to read about your loss. Words cannot describe how my heart is aching for you. I really hope that you find peace during this incredibly sad time.
xx
My condolences.Our friends little girl died a year ago today,she had a heart defect that was never picked up until it was too late.HUGS to you and your hubbie,may you draw strength from those who care
hi there. you very precious people, no easy words and this will not be something you recover from very fast. you have been in our prayers and those of our friends. God is with you. our hearts are with you. love trevor and barbs dean -related to ang and stu.
(((((((((((((Hugs))))))))))))))))))))
(((((((((((((Hugs))))))))))))))))))))
You don't me, but I am a mother of a 2 year old and I just want to let you know that I pray for you and your family every day. May God give strength.
Jules thankyou for sharing such stunning and beautiful photographs and gorgeous sentiments; Im devastated for your loss...
Jen (your former Venture UK work mate)
xxx
Dear Jules & Si,
If words could fill that terrible hole in your hearts right now, we would gladly pour them out for you. I have no way to express to you my sorrow for your pain, but know that we are thinking of you. The love of that gorgeous little boy, whom I only met once while he rested his head in utter delight on Moni's boobs, the love you have for him and he for you will fill that hole. Your heart is forever changed by him - and you, and what you do, touches the hearts of others and changes them. there is nothing on earth like the bond between a mother and her son -its yours forever x
Dear Julie and Simon, I am so sorry for your loss. Love and hugs and prayers for you both. Marian
Hi Jules,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!
All my love Annique
(Bridesmaid Rizanne & James wedding, and Jessica and Rob)
xxxx
Jules,
This is so heart breaking. I could not imagine what you and your family are going through. We think of you often and are so sorry.
Ewan
Jules, we don't know each other personally, but I have followed you lovely work over the years, and I know of you also through Monica.
Words cannot express the feelings that accompany such an immense loss, whether is it is a child, a husband or a parent, but the loss of one's baby must be just the most devasting. These feelings become different over time, but your little Jude will always live on in your hearts, he will never leave you. My thoughts are with you and Simon, and the rest of your family. I weep with you.
Jules, my thoughts are with you both. What a little angle.
Your little boy is absolutely gorgeous. His personality is so alive in those photographs. Why anyone should experience such loss, we will never know while we are here on this earth. Praying for courage for you both during this impossible time.
Jules, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Jude, my heart just breaks for you at this time. Keep strong and know that little Jude is an angel that will live in your heart forever. x
Jules & Simon; we continue to think of you daily. Every parent must feel the anxiety that, 'there, but for the grace of God, go I' but we simply can’t grasp the magnitude of the pain and loss you must feel. Thank you for sharing so publicly your story – you are truly courageous and have reminded us to treasure every moment with our little girl. We are just so sorry you are suffering. Be kind to each other. Love Tarryn & Marco
Jules & Simon; we continue to think of you daily. Every parent must feel the anxiety that, 'there, but for the grace of God, go I' but we simply can�t grasp the magnitude of the pain and loss you must feel. Thank you for sharing so publicly your story � you are truly courageous and have reminded us to treasure every moment with our little girl. We are just so sorry you are suffering. Be kind to each other. Love Tarryn & Marco
Jules, I have no words..thinking of you in my prayers. Stunning photographs as always. Love
Jules, your story and pictures of Jude really touched me. My heart goes out to you and your family.
I heard your story through Monica, and it broke my heart. I don't really know what to say, except that your words and photos reflect nothing but love and beautiful memories of your little boy's life.
Stay strong and keep up your beautiful work.
Z
I have just posted a request to you for avail for my wedding next year ... & then! I stumbled across this. My heart is broken! All my thoughts go out to you, what a gaping hole he must have left. You must be so strong, I have never met you & yet I know that you are. You are seriously in my thoughts and prayers.
I was one of the guests at Paul and Layla's wedding in Franschhoek on the 20th March.Thank you for your strength and resolve and professionalism in working at Layla and Paul's wedding even when you were grieving for your little boy. In your selflessness, you will be blest by the joy you bring others. My daughter who was with me is in awe of the uniqueness of each of your wedding sessions and it has inspired her to build on her love of photography. God Bless you and Simon.
Jules, you are always in my thoughts and the memories of Jude climbing my stairs and playing withe Cayla the day we got together to discuss your stationery ideas will always be with me. He was the most precious little boy and yes he touched so many lives and will continue to do so. You are an amazing woman and you and Simon will always be in my prayers!!
hi jules and simon. chris and i are so sorry to hear of the loss of your baba. we cannot imagine the sadness, pain, anger and emptiness you must both be feeling right now. life is so incredibly unfair. we are thinking of you and sending you lots of love. sim, chris -and tom xxx
Jules, was thinking of you and Simon and hope you guys are ok. My heart breaks whenever I think of you. Jude was a real cutie-pie and I see his smiling face on my fridge every day! His tragic death has made me realise how precious our children are and how they should be loved and cherished every day - something easily forgotten in our busy lives! Just wanted to send my love and prayers.xxx
Jules, our hearts go out to you, we know how wonderful he was and having seen you in some of your stages at our various weddings feel close to
how important the whole process was to you.
Your photographs are nothing short of stunning!
We both send love and big hugs, hang in there
Michael and Liz.
Jules, our hearts go out for you and your family, thinking of you. Love Marc, Bron and Rio
Hi Jules their are no words we could say that could even begin to tell you how sorry we are for yours and your husbands loss, we cant begin to imagine what you are going through. Our thoughts and prays are with you both.
I was swept into your site by the most beautiful photos I've ever seen! Was looking through your baby shoots, thinking~ when our longed-for baby is eventually conceived, I can't wait to have you capture our most precious memories. I then stumbled upon your heart wrenching story. From someone who is yearning for a baby, I can't begin to imagine going through that miraculous journey, feeling so blessed and fulfilled, only to lose your angel so unexpectedly, so soon. I know no words can fill the aching hole in your heart, but your beautiful boy will forever live on in your cherished photographs*x
Jules and Simon,have been mourning and so sad for you sincethe day Jude died but get so upset when I think of it that knew I couldn't speak to you verbally. Today Ang told me (I am just beginning to learn the computer!!!)how to get to your blog and I just fell in love with your Jude and felt so privileged to know you and truly want to say I love and admire you for your incredible courage and the way you are handling life at present - well done girl - we salute you. I think you are an amazing photographer - and you must be so grateful for the lovely memories of Jude.Praying ongoing Lotsa love
Jules, I have booked you to do my wedding in September, but we are yet to meet and I just came across this now. I am so, so sorry about your loss. What a beautiful tribute to your son. Steve and I send our sincere condolences to you and your husband X
jules...since i first heard your sad news you have been in my thoughts and prayers. there are no words to express how truly sorry i am for you both. life makes no sense sometimes. stay as strong as you are and keep capturing life as beautifully as you do xxx
Dear Jules and Simon.
I do not even know you guys, yet my heart is bleeding for you both. Knowing how much I love my two little ones, I cannot begin to fathom what emotions you are going through. Something like this certainly makes one realise just how precious life is. Enjoy every moment of it and as you have mentioned, capture it in photos. God speed from the land down under. All my love,
Lumon
Jules my heart is broken, I am thinking of you all the time you are in my prayers
love
Hannah xxx
Lovely pics so, so, so, so sorry about your loss
love, kisses, hugs and cuddles
Hannah*
saddness is upon us, so very sorry
we will always remember Judelkins
as a favourite cousin!
in rememderance of Jude
all our love to you and may God give4 you guys peace
all our love, hugs, cuddles , wishes, kisses
the morgans*
I am also so sorry for your loss.
Hope this message finds you as well as could be. My daughter is 18 months, my son 4 years. I don't even want to imagine how you must feel. My thoughts are with you, a stranger, you and your husband, strength to you both. r
Dear Jules and Simon,
I follow your blog religiously and heard this sad news through Monica Dart's website
My condolences with the loss of such a precious
little angel.
Love, Valdene
Jules & Simon, we can not even begin to imagine the hell you must have gone and are probably still be going through. We are so so sorry to hear that this truly horrible thing has happened to such lovely people. We have our own little one now and I get a lump in my throat just thinking about your pain... The Aboriginal people believe that the child spirit chooses its parents before it is born - He did good by choosing to spend his short time here on Earth with the two of you! You are both in our thoughts and in our prayers. Sending much love from Dubai - Suzanne & Magnus (and Ethan)
I am so sorry.