Autistic Palm Desert Teen Earns Black Belt

Autism is a development disorder that affects about 48 million people around the world. April is Autism Awareness month with ogals to improve the lives of all affected by autism through education, advocacy, services, research and support.

Jessica McCartney is a Palm Desert teen living with autism. She was diagnosed with the disorder when she was three years old, sending shock waves through her family. “When we first found out, it was like a crushing blow,” said Jessica’s mother Traci. “You think, ‘I’ll have to take care of her for the rest of her life’, I mean that was my first thought. But, I was okay with that, because she’s like an angel to me, she always has been.”

The early years were difficult for Jessica, her sister Caitlyn explains, “Quiet, she stayed to herself, she wouldn’t talk very much, she would be less focused.”

This was the case until Jessica enrolled in karate at age ten. She immediately developed a deep passion for the sport. “I love being with sensei and working with other kids,” said McCartney. “I also want to help other kids who are going to join karate.”

Red Dragon Karate’s Sensei Deanna Bivens had challenges working with Jessica, but over time they overcame them and became stronger, because of them. “Through those bumps and through the communication, I started figuring out how she understands things,” said Bivens. “Once we did, sky’s the limit, she did really well.”

Jessica recently earned the highest distinction in karate, the black belt. A feat that only an elite group have accomplished. “It’s pretty extraordinary because there’s only a few qualified people that can do it,” said Bivens. “And in the martial arts, there’s only 5% that get to black belt.”

Her three years in karate has not only given Jessica the right to wear the black belt, but also given her new confidence. “She’s just grown a lot,” said Traci. “I mean, as a kid, it’s just really amazing to see the difference in her over the years.”

The confidence from karate has opened up doors for more opportunities. Jessica will join the JV cheerleading team at Shadow Hills High School in the fall. “I’m going to be a future cheerleader at my high school, it’s going to be more flexible in making new friends,” said Jessica. “It’s going to make me a lot less nervous doing it in front of a crowd, in front of a game.”

The experience has taught the McCartney family a lot about perseverance and faith. “Don’t give up on your kids,” said Traci. “I mean they are capable of much more than you ever thought they were capable of. Jessica surprises me everyday, everyday. I learn something new, or she says something that just floors me. You can’t give me up. Don’t ever give up on your kids.”