An achievement, nine years in the making

Last month, Patrick Jones of Seeley Lake was awarded his black belt in taekwondo at the Missoula Taekwondo Center. The ceremony marked a height of achievement, nine years in the making.

Earning a belt in taekwondo is a test of self discipline and dedication for anyone, but for Jones, who has Down syndrome, it's an even greater testament to perseverance.

"He loved it from the very first time he went," said Jones' mother Mary Lynne Jones. "A lot of people go 'okay, yeah, he's got Down syndrome. So they just kind of gave it to him.' But no, he absolutely earned every single belt that he got."

Jon...