If you know Eddie Yeary, you probably know him as a tattoo artist.

You may have seen his work - he has inked family portraits, celebrity faces and a notable "Star Trek" scene.

Perhaps his name was passed along on a recommendation. Maybe you know him as the Galactic Cowboy, the name above the picture on his business card.

It's less likely you know that Yeary, a 13-year resident artist at Ancient Art Tattoo, uses his trade to raise money for medical research and charitable efforts.

Two years ago, he was approached by the Pink Ribbon Society, a breast cancer support and advocacy organization, and asked how he could help the cause.

"I can only offer my service," he said. Since then, Yeary has regularly given gift certificates for his work to benefit the Salvation Army and other organizations.

"It really helps further the research and the care," he said.

Fundraisers have not always been interested in support from a tattoo parlor. "Before, they wouldn't have anything to do with us," said Danny Fowler, owner of Ancient Art Tattoo. Now a gift certificate for a tattoo can be the highlight of a charity auction, he said.

At 37, Yeary, who lives in Boones Mill, has spent his life in the Roanoke Valley; his donations seem tied to a concern for his community. He worries about families who struggle with hospital bills. His involvement with the National Breast Cancer Foundation, in particular, stems from seeing women in his family fight the disease.

"I know I'm only one person, but a lot of people get involved with this," he said.

Years of giving tattoos - spent hours at a time with a customer - have made him sympathetic. Tattoo artists see a cross section of society, he said, "Doctors, lawyers, steelworkers and people who work at Hardee's." As the tattoo machine buzzes, bonds form as stories pass back and forth.

One of these stories may be about how much customers like Yeary's tattoos. He has won more than 30 awards throughout the Southeast, and is well-regarded for his black and gray work, which is most often used for portraits.

He also urges his customers to make good choices, and will turn down what he thinks may be a regrettable decision.

"Names, number one," he said. Also, anything on the hands and fingers. "A couple of us guys call them 'job stoppers.'"

Know a Hero? Tell us about someone you know who gives time and talent to help others. Send e-mail to heroes@roanoke.com or call 981-3340.