Barbara Cunningham earned her second-degree black belt in taekwondo at the age of 86 - 11 years after picking up the sport at Summit Martial Arts in Wayne.

Cunningham credits Grandmaster Chang Won Choi with providing guidance and patience during a challenging period in her life, when she lost her husband and two brothers and experienced cardiac problems.

She persevered and even traveled to South Korea to compete.

"Many people come into our lives, but only a precious few inspire us forever," Cunningham said of Choi.

Cunningham and Choi are making Jersey Proud.