Wow, what an incredible journey! I wouldn’t change a thing!

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What started as a whim 7-½ years ago, has grown into something far beyond what I ever imagined. The path was filled with steep learning curves and challenges; understanding the Rock Steady Program, how could boxing make a real difference for those living with Parkinson’s, getting it off the ground, would anyone want to join this kind of gym? And then there was boxing itself... my first lesson ended with a few broken ribs. Could Isustain these growing pains, both physically and financially?

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But here we are, and the journey has been nothing short of amazing. In This Corner Inc. was built on passion and purpose, doing something so out of the box and yet so important. It’s been exciting to witness every Boxer who has walked through our doors fight back with resilience. As I look back on how far we’ve come, I see the faces of every Boxer and the families throughout the years documented in our social media posts and videos, and I know just how special my world became those 7-½ years ago. I’ve poured my heart into this mission, left it all in the ring, and in return I’ve been truly blessed.

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Leaving Indianapolis to start this adventure I knew it had to have a dynamic atmosphere filled with possibilities and positive energy. It has become that and so much more, but I didn’t do it alone. Along the way there were so many fantastic people who showed up, gloved up, and one by one added their super sauce; their passion and energy. Ultimately each Boxer, every Volunteer and Coach alike, brought something special, shaping the culture of our gym into a truly unique place.

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When life threw us some of the really hard punches, together we ducked, pivoted and held our own. Each time things looked grim, a door would open or a barrier would fall down and we remained in the game. The journey that brought me down this path seemed to be guided by divine intervention. The path wasn’t always smooth but opportunities kept presenting themselves and intuition told me there was a reason for that. In This Corner Inc. was here to do big things, we were meant to be.

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Intuition now tells me it is time for me to pivot. To make room for youthful energy and leadership, while the organization is strong, healthy, and, most importantly, while I still love what I do.

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Perhaps the true beauty of life lies not in what we hold onto, but in what we give away, whether it’s a smile, your time, kindness, or love. A nonprofit isn’t something you can sell; it’s something you give away. I understood that long before I became the Founder of In This Corner Inc. I wanted this opportunity to continue as long as Parkinson’s Disease, and now Down Syndrome and Autism, remain challenges. I’m thrilled to have found someone with the vision and passion to grow and carry it forward.

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Thank you to all of you, for your friendship, your trust, your time, and the millions of memories we’ve created together. The belly laughs, the tears, and the countless magical moments we’ve witnessed in the gym. Thank you to our amazing team, Lynette, Kelsey & Al, for their tireless dedication to making each class a reality. Thank you to all of the Board members over the years for your support and belief in the programs. And a special thank you to Victoria, for showing up with a passion that matches my own. I look forward to seeing you take it to even greater heights! I’ll be forever grateful.

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All my love,

Marianne Chapin

Founder of In This Corner, Inc.