Young man with Down syndrome defies odds

WEST MIAMI-DADE, Fla. (WSVN) -- A young man diagnosed with Down syndrome has accomplished a feat no one else with his disability has ever accomplished: earned a black belt in karate.

For the last three years, Andrew Campbell has been active in karate class and finally made his way to the top like no other American with Down syndrome before him. His family is filled with pride. "What I saw once he started was amazing. We stepped back and encouraged him," said his father, Douglas Campbell.

Andrew is now the first black belt in the United States with Down syndrome. Campbell is an inspiration to many. "Given the opportunity, he really excels," said Darren Campbell, Andrew's brother. "He shines. People don't give him enough credit."

Except for his sensei. "I have the patience, he has the patience, so it's OK," said Yasuyoshi Saito.

Five days a week Andrew travels on his own, from his job in a Brickell law firm to Japan Karate Association in West Miami-Dade. Campbell's dedication to karate has paid off, making history in the process. "I love karate," said Andrew.

Campbell said it was his dream to some day receive a black belt. Now that dream became reality.