Today we reveal how outdoor activity specialist Julie is preparing to try her hand at an astonishing range of para-sports in the run up to the city's Commonwealth Games.

Julie, who has cerebral palsy and is profoundly deaf, is going to try her hand at lawn bowls, athletics, swimming, track cycling and powerlifting between now and the global sporting extravaganza.

The 26-year-old aims to take part in the para-sports part of the Commonwealth Games.

Unlike London 2012, however, these events will take place at the same time as those for able-bodied athletes. And that makes an important statement about the Games.

Yes, they will feature some of the world's most exclusive sportsmen and women. But they will – at the same time – showcase the inspirational efforts of those who face even greater physical challenges than most.

The Paralympics in London are showing us that there is nothing quite as impressive as the human spirit of athletes dubbed by some as "disabled".

People like Julie McElroy are an example not just to other disabled athletes ... but to all of us.