Jake Perry

Jake was born with a serious genetic disorder that requires medication 5 times a day. Through sheer determination, years of dedication and a big helping of talent he achieved his Black Belt in Karate at 13 years old. He's just returned to school after major heart surgery and is longing for July when he can resume his Karate career. He's a great motivator for the younger children in his Karate club, especially those with medical, emotional and educational needs. Even though he endures the daily difficulties of his medical problems along with a serious speech impediment, he is loved and admired by everyone who meets him. He's a true inspiration to his peers and has worked so hard to achieve such great sucess in his chosen sport. It would be an inspiration to local teenagers struggling with ill health and other difficulties to see Jake carrying the Olympic Torch. We're all very proud of him.