In 2009 a UCLA Pathways student approached Paul McCarthy (head instructor for Cognitive Kali) and wanted to learn how to do martial arts 'break falls'. The student had a condition called 'Cerebral Palsy' which affected his balance and unfortunately he had been injured in several falls. Instead of just sending him to a class, Mr. McCarthy decided to teach the student himself. Almost 5 years later the student has seen a tremendous improvement not only in his balance, but in his ability to do many other things. After three years the student was able to stand up unaided and more recently has taken to chasing Mr. McCarthy around the gym with Escrima Sticks!!