DeJohnette Martial Arts Academy

Thank you to everyone who sent texts, messages, and phone calls wishing me a happy 75th birthday. Your kind, compassionate words have warmed my heart. Thank you all. 😎❤🙏💝

In February of 2021, I was diagnosed with age-related cataracts. I was slowly losing my vision. Despite my grit and determination, I realized that I was losing more than just my sight. Neuroscience has shown that the eyes are directly connected to the brain.

I was losing my mental focus. As a martial arts instructor and practitioner, loss of focus is a fatal blow. Within the next two years, I realized I could no longer teach students effective technique. Then, Lorenzo Rendon, my best student, ended his training, and I knew it was time to close my studio.

Loss of vision led to brain fog; brain fog led to memory loss. When the hyung began to disappear, I saw the end of my Soo Bahk Do journey. Having achieved the rank of 4th Dan, I felt I had given as much as I could. My strength waned, my flexibility diminished, and I gained weight that I didn't need. I thought it was over.

When I failed the eye examination at the DMV, my driver's license was suspended. All of my outside activities were cut off. That was a year ago. After several trips to my optometrist, I was told that I needed surgery to remove my clouded lenses. I didn't realize then that everything in my life would change. So I began the process for the cataract surgery. On August 13, 2026, my ophthalmologist completed surgery on my right eye. That day, for the first time in over 15 years, I could see colors, bright and radiant, with amazing detail. Something in my brain changed! I felt that I was part of the world again. My birthday is August 27, and surgery is scheduled that day for my left eye. This year, I will be 75, and my vision will be clearer than it's ever been. When my 'field of vision' returns, everything will change. I hope I can return to my training and help to inspire the junior students. We will see!

Happy Birthday, Juliet. I hope you are enjoying this wonderful Special Day.❤️🎂🍰👊😎

Master Tim Paige, where are you? I found these photos in my archives. They were taken by you. Thank you so much for the memories.

Happy Birthday, Master John Lupone!
Wishing you a wonderful day filled with joy, good health, and well-deserved happiness. May the year ahead bring you continued strength, wisdom, and success.

Enjoy your special day!

"I am and have always been your friend."

Happy Birthday, Susan Fittanto, SBN!

Back in the Day. . . on the Jersey Shores. An invincible family. . .