When you’re faced with obstacles and adversity, that’s when you find out who you really are. – Julie Ann Kelly

Julie Ann Kelly is a two-time Golden Gloves champion and one of the friendliest people I know. I first met Julie just starting out at Trinity Boxing Club — always encouraging and willing to share what she knows to help improve our game.

At first you admire her skills, technique and work ethic in the ring. Then you find out about all the obstacles she overcame on the road to the championships: shoulder surgery, Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, radiation treatment and finally, alcoholism. To me she embodies the heart of a fighter. She not only tackles life’s challenges head on, but also helps bring out the strength, tenacity and spirit of the fighter in others. I had a chance to interview her and watch her spar over the weekend — I’m proud and lucky to have Julie in my corner. Thank you for sharing your story.

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