WHEN she was born the doctors could not even predict whether she would ever walk.

But now, Julie McElroy, who has trekked in the Himalayas and canoed the full length of Loch Shiel, will take on the challenge of completing one of Glasgow's biggest races.

The 26-year-old from Jordanhill, who was born with cerebral palsy and has speech, hearing and mobility difficulties, will run the Great Scottish Run 10K on Sunday, September 2.

Julie, who was an Evening Times Scots-woman of the Year 2011 finalist, will be accompanied by Jacqueline Mackenzie Robb who she worked with as a note taker at the University of the West of Scotland where Julie is currently studying for a PhD in assistive technology.

The race, which is sponsored by Bank of Scotland, weaves its way around the city to finish at Glasgow Green.

Julie said: "I decided to investigate whether they would allow disabled people to walk it as running isn't my greatest strength at the moment due to the severe complexity of my walking gait.

"And that was what got the ball rolling."

When Julie was born medical staff were vague about the future and could not predict whether she would be able to walk.

Her parents were advised just to wait and see how she progressed.

Since then Julie has completed dozens of physical challenges and last year completed her John Muir Conserver Award, the highest level of the environmental John Muir Award scheme, for completing four adventure challenges and inspiring other disabled people to get out and enjoy the great outdoors.

And, last month, Julie was one of the proud bearers of the Olympic torch as it passed through Glasgow.

Julie says, through training for the 10K, she has been given a confidence boost which has inspired her to take her fitness to another level and has seen a dramatic improvement in her endurance and balance co-ordination.

Jacqueline, who Julie will do the 10K with, added: "Julie is an inspiration to all society both to able-bodied people and those with disabilities.

"It is with great admiration for her and confidence that she will continue with her ventures and grow and develop to achieve her dreams.

"I have found and continue to find it a privilege working with Julie, and I believe she has many talents.

"The one that I have found to be the most outstanding is her talent for motivating and inspiring people for the benefit of society in all walks of life.

"And, of course, her now well known sense of humour."

matty.sutton@heraldandtimes.co.uk