Help a Puerto Rican Fencer

My name is Jean Carlos De la Cruz.  I have practiced the sport of fencing since the age of 11.  For most of my fencing career I studied at Club de Esgrima Toa Baja in Puerto Rico.  Since Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico, I have moved to Texas to continue my training.  

Fencing is known as a gentleman's sport.  Like most sports it teaches both mental and emotional strength, but fencing also focuses on honesty and the moral values needed to become a productive citizen and an asset to society.  

Through hard work I have been at the top of Puerto Rican rankings since I fenced in youth competition.  Today at the age of 21, I am the 2nd ranked member of the Puerto Rican Men's Team Epee.  As a member of the National Team, I am training to fence at the Pan-American Championships which will be held in Havana, Cuba in June.  

Hurricane Maria had a tremendous impact on the Puerto Rican Fencing Federation.  Currently the Federation does not have the resources necessary to fund athlete's travel and registration expenses.  Of course, the hurricane and resultant flooding also had a significant impact on my family's financial resources and I am unable to cover all the costs associated with the tournament.  That is why I need your help.

The total cost of the trip should be approximately $2100.  Funds donated will cover my roundtrip airfare, hotel costs, food, and registration expenses.  Any donation you make will be greatly appreciated.  If funds in excess of the requested $2100 are raised, I will apply them to the costs of additional training or travel expenses related to my representing Puerto Rico at future competitions.  Thank you very much for your consideration.  

 http://www.fedesgrimapuertorico.org/ranking.htm 

In the video slideshow below, I am on the right.   This is the gym where I train in North Texas.