An Army veteran and his son who battled cancer three years ago are now waging war against COVID-19.
Their weapons of choice? Masks.
Retired Army Sgt. First Class Juan Rodriquez and his son Chris are an inseparable duo. When Chris was diagnosed with cancer three years ago, they fought the disease together.
With the support of family, friends and the staff at Virginia Cancer Specialist in Gainesville, Virginia, Chris has been cancer-free since 2016.
“My son’s battle with cancer was very hard on me as a father,” Juan said. “I had to find it in myself to be positive in front and for him and stayed every day with him.”
Chris’ recovery left the Rodriquez family feeling blessed and appreciative. All was well until the coronavirus pandemic left Chris with time on his hands after his hours were cut at work.
“The mask-making idea was actually my father’s idea,” said Chris. “My father gave me a call and I thought it was a great service to give back to the place that gave me so much.”
Juan said he got the idea after seeing news stories about how the protective coverings were in short supply and desperately needed by medical professionals. He used his own money to buy the materials needed to make the masks and gave Chris the job of manufacturing them.
“I have been taught that a life without service to others is an incomplete life and I have instilled that in my children,” explained Juan. “That’s why I am also involved with the American Legion and their events.”
The duo delivered about 100 masks to the cancer center on Friday.
“Life can end in a snap of a finger,” said Chris. “I want to do my part because so many people did their part for me to get me where I am today.”
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Reach Julia LeDoux at Julia@connectingvetws.com
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