One for all, all for Juan

When the Yard House in Triangle Square opened some 10 years ago, Juan Leyva was there, busing its first tables.

When some of the current servers started their jobs at the restaurant five or six years ago, Leyva was there then, helping them out, ushering them in.

And now, those same people Leyva has always been there for are working to help Leyva.

The 37-year-old Costa Mesa resident was diagnosed with lymphocytic leukemia about three months ago, and it was discovered he has been living with the disease for a few years. He was immediately pulled out of work because the disease has destroyed his immune system, but Leyva and his family were left with only limited income and no health insurance.

But what they did have was a strong support group in Leyva’s coworkers.

“We have all worked together for so long, it is sad to see someone go through something like that,” server Rebecca Long said.

Long and fellow servers Lindsey Duncan and Jennifer Gregory have collaborated to put together a special fundraiser, “Juan-A-Palooza,” to raise money for Leyva and his family.

The event, which is supported by several local businesses, will start at 6 p.m. Monday at the Harp Inn. There will be raffle drawings, auctions and drinks. All proceeds will go toward the Leyva family.

“You can see it in his eyes,” said Leyva’s nephew, Francisco Gopar. “At first he was very troubled, but knowing that so many people are helping him, it is a lot of weight off his shoulders.”

Gopar works at the Yard House as well and has been helping his uncle’s family throughout this process. Leyva’s wife, Patricia, is also working at the restaurant, taking Leyva’s job to keep a steady income for the family.

Leyva’s treatments change weekly, and the family didn’t have a way to pay for them until they recently qualified for medical insurance. With things being so difficult, Long and her coworkers felt they had to get involved.

“Yard House has a camaraderie like that,” said Long, who has worked with Leyva for about five years. “He is the hardest worker we have there and just a good guy. We felt the need to help.”

Leyva has lost a lot of weight since he began treatment, but is still active. He wants to go back to work, but his immune system won’t allow it. The disease has left him in sort of a waiting game, but his spirits are high due to the efforts of his family and his coworkers.

“I am feeling pretty good today,” Leyva said with Gopar translating. “I am really happy. They are very kind girls.”

Leyva thanked the Yard House staff members for their continued support, including manager Tim Bolan and founder Harold Herman, who visited Leyva and gave him some words of encouragement.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Juan-A-Palooza

WHO: Fundraiser for Juan Leyva and his family

WHEN: 5 p.m. Monday

WHERE: Harp Inn, 130 E. 17th St, Costa Mesa

ADMISSION: $5 at the door

DANIEL TEDFORD may be reached at (714) 966-4632 or at daniel.tedford@latimes.com.