Martin Shenher (right) with Hanshi Manicke (Submitted photo)

By Nigel Maxwell

Inspiring people

‘You are never too old to start’: Prince Albert man with MS receives black belt

Jul 24, 2023 | 5:00 PM

A Prince Albert man with multiple-sclerosis is celebrating the milestone accomplishment of earning his black belt in karate after training for six years.

Martin Shenher, who trains at Prince Albert’s Kuro Tora Dojo, earned his black belt on Saturday. Speaking with paNOW, the 58-year-old explained he does feel proud, but also added his journey is not over.

“As a black belt it means that I am now ready to learn and master the advanced techniques taught at our Dojo and I am truly looking forward to it as I learn something new every time I attend a class,” he said.

In Shenher’s case he has relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis and not primary progressive, which causes a gradual worsening of neurologic symptoms and an accumulation of disability. Diagnosed when he was only 22 years old, Shenher can still recall being told by doctors to find an indoor office job to help with MS symptoms (heat stress, fatigue, muscle weakness, balance). But in September 2017 Shenger took up karate.

“When I first started I had very low confidence in my ability and yes a black belt did seem out of reach but as the years progressed and my strength and confidence increased I set a goal and moved towards it always trying to the best of my ability,” he said.

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Shenher demonstrates his strength. (submitted photo)

In March, 2021, after 18 years of daily needles and two years of daily pills, Shenher was told by his doctor he could stop taking the medications. His neurologist also stopped the yearly checkups and advised Shenher he should not stop training in karate, as the sport improved Shenher’s balance and strength.

“I hope this sends a positive message to others who have MS or anybody that has limited mobility or is in poor health physically. Everyone can benefit from the strength and cardio benefits of practicing karate,” he said. Shenher added his master instructor has taught people who were in wheelchairs as well as people into their 80’s.

“You are never too old to start. You just have to keep trying to the best of your ability and you will see improvements within yourself,” he said.

Shenher graded with two others on Saturday, and received his First Dan Shodan in Bushido Kan Ryu Karate Style.

“In my words, we here at Kuro Tora Dojo are extremely proud of Martin, as he never gave up or shied away from any challenge. Martin is a strong competitor in our tournament circuit,” Hanshi Manicke (Grand Master) said.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell