In September, my brother Luke took a brave step forward, leaving the job he’d dedicated more than five years to so he could build a better life for his family in a new career working with oilfield machinery. But just three weeks in, everything changed. As a diabetic, even a small injury can turn serious—and he developed a devastating bone infection in the fourth toe of his left foot. By November 9th, the infection had spread into his bloodstream, landing him in the hospital fighting for his health. By the next morning, doctors had no choice but to amputate his toe to save his life.

Because of the long healing process and the time he had already missed, he lost the job he had worked so hard to earn. And now, with the injury’s placement and his risk of further infection, he cannot return to any work that requires him to be on his feet until he is fully healed. While trying to hold his family together, he’s also facing about $1,500 in medical copays and prescriptions—on top of rent, bills, and the everyday needs of being the sole provider for five mouths depending on him.

With Christmas approaching, the weight on his shoulders has become overwhelming. If you’re able to help in any way, your kindness would mean more than words can say. It would give him the chance to focus on healing, keep a roof over his family’s heads, and bring hope into a season that has become incredibly difficult.