Derry youngster creates history by becoming the first person to receive an honorary black belt at five-years-old – Derry Now

Young John McCaughey has created a little bit of ju-jitsu history locally by becoming the first person ever to receive an honorary black belt at just five-years-old.

John, who suffers from cerebral palsy, was bestowed with the honour at a special seminar at Foyle Arena at the weekend, which was also help to raise funds for the McCaughey family.

John was born prematurely in November 2011, weighing just 1lbs 7ozs and his family was told he had less than a 50% chance of survival. At just two weeks old, he then contracted the Pseudomonas bacterial infection and faced a huge fight for survival.

Helping in his recovery was the discovery of a unique therapy which, has helped improve Johns quality of life. Advanced Biomechanical Rehabilitation (ABR) - which involves subtle massage-like pressure on the childs body - was developed in Russia and was first used in Scotland just recently and the family have been travelling to Scotland regularly in recent years for treatment.

On Sunday past, members of MD Force Ju-Jitsu got together to host a special seminar in Johns honour, to celebrate his honorary black belt and to raise funds for further treatment.

Father John expressed his appreciation for the clubs efforts on the day.

I would just like to thank everyone who participated in the seminar, he said. John has received an honorary black belt at 5 years of age. Its the first time its happened in Ireland so he will be a honorary member of the club from here on in.

John was born at 25 weeks old, and placed in an incubator for 6 months. He contracted a disease in Altnagelvin which left him brain damaged and cerebral palsy set in. At the minute hes doing very well. He gets regular treatment every three months and hell be going to Scotland in October for more treatment. The money raised from Sundays seminar will help to pay the bills for that.

MD Force Ju-Jitsu Sensei Josie Murray admitted it was an honour to bestow such an honour on John, who has long been a member of the club.

Were honouring him with a black belt and a certificate from the governing body of Irelands 32 Ju-Jitsu, Donegal Ju-Jitsu, Cobra-Kai, Global Ju-Jitsu and Gracie Muay Tai, he explained. This is the first time ever that a boy of this age has received this award. I have cleared it with my ocs and they are honoured and they want to say that they are always there in spirit with John.

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Derry youngster creates history by becoming the first person to receive an honorary black belt at five-years-old - Derry Now