Growing up in a big family with a younger brother who was in and out of the hospital his entire life never felt unusual to me. I didn’t fully understand the stress, fear, and heartbreak my parents carried—they did everything they could to shield the rest of us from it.

For me, it was about the moments that mattered most—the excitement of the rare times he was able to come home after fighting for his life, just so I could beat him in Super Smash Brothers. I never wanted to stop being his older brother.

Now that I’m older, I understand more deeply the unconditional love parents have for their children, and the incredible strength that comes from a close-knit family, a supportive community, and even kind strangers.

Recently, my fiancée Claressa and her amazing family have been hit with an unexpected and difficult challenge. Her oldest brother, Samuel Jr., has been diagnosed with colon cancer. Sam is 38. While there are still unknowns, we remain hopeful and optimistic, there’s no doubt he is facing the fight of his life and a long road to recovery.

Sam means everything to his two daughters, his parents, his younger brother Daniel, and of course, Clare. And I know he is determined to fight—for them and for himself.

Just as friends, family, and even strangers once came together to support my family, I’m hoping we can do the same for Sam and his loved ones. Our goal is to help ease the financial burden that comes with this kind of battle, so they can focus on what truly matters—his health and their time together.

Even simply sharing this would mean so much.

Thank you for your support.