Jodie, 19 from Belfast was born at 30 weeks weighing just 3lbs 2oz. Fifteen months later she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy in addition to this doctors later found she had scoliosis and serious issues with her sight. As a young child Jodie found her education tough as she felt very isolated and struggled with her self-esteem. Through a recommendation in her local community she started attending Monkstown Boxing a local BBC Children in Need funded community project, which delivers youth group sessions which work to improve the mental health and wellbeing of young people. Monkstown Boxing have made a hugely positive impact on Jodie’s life by supporting her with her anxiety and depression. Through attending the project, Jodie has gained confidence in spades and has become an inspiring speaker a for other disabled youngsters facing similar challenges. She’s now thriving at school and wants to become a youth worker.