I started my son Eric in the martial arts when he was 10 years old to help better deal with Tourettes syndrome and to learn how to control his anger. Today he is a 1st Degree Black Belt and a leader not a follower.

I originally enrolled in martial arts to get in better shape, finished what I started, and gain a positive attitude/lifestyle. Now Im 53 years old and a 2nd Degree Black Belt. I can clearly see me earning my 4th Degree by the time I am 60!

Sensei Haley has been a great leader and teacher for me. He has taught me to never quit. He has always been there for me when I had hard times with my son and is still there for me.

My favorite quote I learned in the dojo is, See it Believe it Achieve it. I say that to myself over and over and it reminds me to stay focused on my goals and never give up!

Lori Ann Pon
2nd Degree Black Belt

Several years ago, I trained in another form of martial arts. I loved it then as much as I do today. At the peak of my training, I developed an illness. An illness that took over two years for physicians to give it a name. An illness that has no cure. An illness that ultimately forced me to walk away from my training as well as many of the other things I enjoyed doing. I was diagnosed with one of the many forms of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). The short version, I have an abundance of bad cells that live within my body. The bad cells attack the fibrous lining and tissue that surrounds the long bones, muscles and many organs, such as the heart and lungs. At the time of my diagnosis, it was felt by many physicians treating patients with RA, that participating in activities such as martial arts would only result in further damage to our cycle. The cycle of taking multiple medications to combat the disease. Taking more medications to treat the side effects of the medications used to treat the disease. The cycle went on and on. Each day presented a challenge for me and the word positive was in no way shape or form a part of my vocabulary.

That was then this is now. A little over two years ago, my husband Dave walked into the LaVallees Clay dojo and made the commitment to become a Black Belt Champion. During his first year of training, I would come in for each of his classes and watch on the sidelines. Supporting and cheering him on as he worked his way up the belt ranks. It was great, as I was proud of him for making a positive change in his life. However, at the same time, it was very difficult for me. It was difficult as I wanted for nothing more than to be back on the floor. One day, while watching David, Sensei Jim Munger came over and sat next to me on the bleachers. We spent some time talking about martial arts and the challenges that many of us faces. It was the first of many positive conversations that I would have within the dojo walls. Positive conversations that have had a huge impact on my life. A few days after that conservation, I found myself sitting in Sensei Mungers office. Together we came up with a plan. After getting the clearance from my physician, I signed up for 30 days and immediately started taking classes. At the end of the 30 days I went to see my physician who was amazed at how well I was doing. She was so pleased at my progress and the change in attitude that she agreed to let me continue for another 30 days. At the end of the 60 days I joined my husband and made the commitment to become a Black Belt Champion.

Along with making the commitment, I made a list of goals and a written plan on how I would achieve my goals. Each day I looked at my plan and then set out to work towards reaching my goals. At the end of each day, I took the time to reflect on my day and recorded its memories in a journal. This has been my routine for a little over a year and I have to tell you, I am amazed at the results. I have lost almost 30 pounds, increased my flexibility and strength. I am confident and positive. I reduced the need for taking many of the medications. In fact I have the ability to manage most of my pain by replacing the medications with stretching and meditation.

I am proof. Proof that martial arts can do so much for someone who incorporates its benefits in to their daily routine. Of course I could not have achieved what I have on my own. The support and encouragement from my husband, Master Feidt, Sensei Kris Munger, Sensei Jim Munger, Sensei Baker, Miss Lingwood, Mr. Getman, Mr. Michaud, along with my classmates has kept me going. They are my family my dojo family.

My name is Tammy Ferguson and that is my story. Now I ask you Do you have 30 days? 30 days to make a positive change in your life.