Myself and Ellis have for some reason signed up for our first marathon.

We are raising money for Able2B, as Able2B is a community interest company set up to develop services that help improve function for children and adults with a disability.

The initiative was developed in 2016 by Rachael Hutchinson, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon and Jon Thaxton, retired boxer and personal trainer. The aim was to help people with a disability optimise their aerobic fitness and muscle strength as well as improve their concentration and self confidence in a fun way.

The service has gradually built from a single small class in a local boxing club to having received the Active Norfolk Award for ‘Services to Disability Sport’ in 2017 & 2018. Receiving backing from JustforChildren and Irwin Mitchell Solicitors has enabled them to move to a new adapted gym site at Norwich Clinic, 9, Gilchrist Close, Norwich NR4 6AT, so that they can develop this concept further, reaching a wider audience.

One thing that is clear from their classes is that they not only offer a way to improve cardiovascular fitness, but also improve self-belief, concentration and self-confidence.

Having chronic illnesses or receiving a diagnosis of a chronic problem later in life can lead to a loss of self-belief in what might be possible for the individual.

Using Jon’s experience in motivational work and their experience in working around medical problems and the issues that may occur they can achieve outcomes that make a massive difference to day to day life.

They are also able to offer advice to schools and local businesses with regards to inclusivity, work experience and employment, in the aim to improve opportunities for teenagers and young adults with a disability.

Their aim is to help individuals whatever their problems to Discover their Ability and show their family, friends and society what is possible if you just believe.