A personal victory, and we are incredibly proud

Sharon (Di Guido) McDonald

I wanted to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of you for your unwavering support, dedication, and encouragement throughout Johnny’s journey over the past six years.

Your guidance in teaching him discipline, courage, patience, and the true values of Martial Arts has made a lasting impact. Johnny has grown so much—not just in skill, but in confidence and self-belief. He faced setbacks, failing twice along the way, but he never gave up. He stayed determined and kept working hard, and finally achieved the black belt he had always dreamed of.

As a child with autism, Johnny has overcome many challenges. But as you’ve shown, autism is only one part of who he is. Thank you for seeing his potential, for investing in him, and for helping him rise. You helped him realize that he is more than any label.

This black belt symbolizes far more than a rank—it marks a personal victory, and we are incredibly proud.

At this time, Johnny has decided that he’s ready to step away and not pursue further advancement. He feels fulfilled, and that this accomplishment was the right milestone to complete his Martial Arts journey.