James (OJ) Pitawanakwat is currently battling stage 4 liver failure and colon cancer, and he urgently needs help covering medical and transportation expenses.

Many know OJ from the 1995 Gustafsen Lake Standoff, a pivotal land-rights dispute in Canada that occurred during a sacred ceremony. After those events, he took refuge in the United States and has not been able to return home since. Despite this, OJ has remained deeply connected to his culture and continues to be an advocate for Native American and First Nations rights.

For those who know OJ personally, you know the man behind the history:

a kind, funny, helpful, and caring soul with a generous heart. Though he had to leave many loved ones behind in Canada, he built a community here in the U.S., found family, and married Christina Keshick-Pitawanakwat, whose family embraced him with love. OJ has been a devoted husband, a wonderful father and grandfather, and a loyal friend to many.

At this time, OJ and his family need support more than ever.

Any help—big or small—will make a difference and will show him how many people care about him.

Thank you for your love, support, and generosity.