John has always been someone who shows up for others. After more than a decade working as a mechanic for other people, he went back to school in his 30s, earned his certification, and saved every penny he could to open his own business. About ten years ago, he finally launched Carlson’s Mobile Auto Repair, serving his community by meeting people wherever they needed help—at home, at work, or stranded on the side of the road. In rural areas, a car is a lifeline, and John made sure his neighbors could count on him, working seven days a week and at all hours to get people back on track.

But now, John is facing a crisis. This past weekend, catastrophic flooding hit Western Washington. While driving, John’s work van was caught in rapidly rising floodwaters and was nearly completely submerged. His insurance has declared the van a total loss, and it’s unclear if he’ll receive enough to replace it. As a one-person business, John has no backup plan, no paid time off, and no emergency fund—just his determination to keep serving his community and keep prices affordable.

I am John’s little sister, Tiffany, and in my 40 years, I’ve never known him to ask for help. This request is coming very much from a place of need. Without his van, he has no way to bring in income. He’s currently applying for other jobs while he figures out if and when he can rebuild his business. The funds from this GoFundMe will be given to him to help cover his basic living expenses—rent, utilities, gas, medical, and food—while he navigates these uncertain times. If you’re able, please donate or share to help John stay afloat and give him a chance to get back on his feet. It would mean the world to him.