11°
Her widowed husband and the girls' dad, Victor Roman, says he has his ups and downs.
But there's one thing that has yet to get easier.
Unlike Julia's older children Dwayne and Valeria, and 5-year-old Victoria with whom she shares with Victor, the twins will never know their mom.
"I'm still dealing with that one," he said, teary-eyed. "It's difficult."
Victor has been out of work as an MTA employee in New York City since Julia's death Nov. 16 of last year.
He's been caring for the twins and 5-year-old Victoria, with help from his sister on weekends and as of last week, a babysitter.
Victor says the twins are easy, happy babies.
Isabella has a head of thick black hair, like her mom, and weighs 12 pounds and 9 ounces.
Grace has light brown hair and weights 12 pounds and 5 ounces.
The outpouring of support from the community has made the difference, but Victor anticipates an uphill battle.
"I don't think it will ever get easier," he said. "I miss my wife quite a lot."
He prays. He cries. He hopes things will improve.
Victoria has enjoyed helping her father care for the babies. Victor says he sees a semblance of Julia in her.
"Victoria has actually handled things a lot better than I have," he said. "She understands her mom has passed away," he said. "She knows she's in heaven."
A New York City proclamation honored Julia last December for her outstanding achievements and service as MTA's first female escalator mechanic.
She was was elected by her peers to become the first female shop steward for Transport Workers Union Local 100.
"The girls had a good mother," Victor said. "I want to make sure they know that they had a good mother."
** Victor thanked the police, local moms and various organizations that came together to help him **
DONATIONS OF SIMILAC NEOSURE, GIFT CARDS AND DIAPERS SIZES 4 AND 5 CAN BE DROPPED AT THE DUMONT POLICE DEPARTMENT, 50 WASHINGTON AVENUE.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Bergenfield and receive free news updates.
