Help our neighbor and Veteran, Juan Cantu

In times such as these, a man's character can be judged by how he deals with adversity, and what he does to move his community forward as he struggles to take his own next step. It is a rare man, indeed, who is successful at both when faced with difficult circumstances. Our dear friend, Juan Cantu is one such man.

A gentle and unassuming soul, Juan served as a Combat Medic for five years in the U.S. Army, tending to others amidst horrors many of us could not even imagine. He was changed by his experiences on battlefields in Baghdad and Mosul, Iraq, but he knew, for the sake of his family, he could not allow the demons he found in those places to overtake his life.

He turned to art, and has emerged as an extremely talented artist, and -- more importantly -- as an inspiration to many facing demons of their own. Juan's generous spirit led him to gather materials of every sort into a wondrous collection he calls Uroboric Salvage in Milford, Delaware. Here, he invites artists of all ages and skill levels to roam about the studio, and encourages them to take items for use in their own projects. Nothing is priced, and Juan seems reluctant, always, to accept payment for his goods: his mission in Uroboric Salvage is not to become wealthy, but rather, to share what he has so that others may find pathways to peace through artistic expression.

Opportunities to share his knowledge of art with others have presented themselves along the way, and even though he has been filled with self-doubt and insecurity about what he has to offer, Juan pushes through each presentation, each workshop ... and he touches lives. One cannot be in the presence of Juan Cantu and remain unchanged.

Juan's work within his community and especially with fellow Veterans has no doubt soothed many a troubled soul, but now Juan is in trouble, and he needs our help.

Recently, Juan and his wife, Jaime, were informed that the home they have rented is to be sold, and they have been served with an eviction notice. The Cantus have been asked to leave the premises in less than two months, a short deadline weighed down by the great burden of uncertainty, and one which is sure to put enormous financial strain on their already tight budget.

We ask that you gain inspiration from the life of this remarkable man, and though you may be battling demons of your own, find ways to help Juan, as he has so selflessly given to others.

Cash donations are requested in any amount you are able to give, as well as help in finding housing for Jaime, Juan and their family. Offers of help on moving day will be gratefully accepted.

May God bless and guide you in your efforts, and may God protect the Cantu family in their time of need.