“When I was young, my mother used to tell me I can do anything. I’ve adapted this in later life, and my mantra is ‘I can’t do it… YET”.  

These are the words from John Willis, a man born without limbs, who has proven that anyone can participate in sports after paddling 108 miles to raise money for his charity Power2Inspire.

Using an adapted paddle, Mr Willis paddled across the river Thames from Circklade to Eton Dorney and passed through Berkshire to celebrate the charity’s 10th anniversary.

After this huge achievement, Mr Willis has been nominated for the ITV Regional Fundraiser Pride of Britain Award.

“It really is an honour to be recognised for the work myself and the charity has done. There are so many wonderful individuals recognised, and it’s wonderful to be shortlisted.” 

Mr Willis, a Cambridge man, set up his charity following a triathlon relay in 2013. Born without fully formed arms and legs, and after being excluded from sports and opportunities as a child, John dedicated his time to making sure no one was left behind anymore.

“I think it’s really important for our younger generation to know that regardless of their ability or disability, there are ways everyone can be included in sports, and no one should be left on the bench like I was.”

Power2Inspire encourages those, regardless of ability, to get involved with sports by hosting inclusive and adapted sports events and opportunities across the country. The charity also focuses on inclusivity across age, gender, ethnicity or faith.