My stepdad, John McDavid, lost everything in a devastating apartment fire.

While he was at work, the entire building where he lived—his one-bedroom home—burned to the ground. By the time the fire was out, there was nothing left. Everything he owned is gone.

John is one of the sweetest, kindest souls you could ever meet. He is hardworking, selfless, and incredibly caring—the kind of person who always shows up for others and never asks for help for himself. Everyone who knows him absolutely adores him.

He has lived a life full of passion and adventure. John has traveled throughout Europe, and with this fire he lost countless irreplaceable photos from a lifetime of experiences. He’s followed Billy Strings across the country, never misses Dragon Con, and spent decades collecting memorabilia from concerts, conventions, and moments that meant everything to him—including an incredible Star Wars collection he built over his entire life. These weren’t just belongings; they were memories.

John is also a beloved staple at the restaurant he works at, Mad Italian, where he is deeply loved by coworkers and customers alike.

By an absolute miracle, firefighters rescued the two family dogs with minutes to spare. Hercules, our very first family dog, is 17 years old, and we are beyond grateful he survived.

Right now, John is starting over from nothing—no home, no clothes, no photos, and no keepsakes from the life he built. Asking for help doesn’t come easily to him, but rebuilding after a loss like this is overwhelming.

If you’re able to donate, share, or send love his way, it would mean the world. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.