Ronald Lewis, the proprietor of The House of Dance and Feathers cultural museum, is suffering complications relating to his diabetes.

According to an online fundraiser organized by his loved ones, the retired President of the Big 9 Social Aid & Pleasure Club and Gate Keeper of North Side Skull & Bone Gang, is facing unexpected expenses and serious issues of the gallbladder and kidney.

Though currently receiving medical care at Ochsner and looking forward to being back on his feet for Carnival and Mardi Gras, being hospitalized has caused him great financial stress. “Ronald and his family really need help in this trying and stressful time,” says a GoFundMe launched in his name. “Please join us in the spirit Social Aid by giving back to our friend, mentor, partner and father who has done so much for us and the world over the years.”

In 2016, OffBeat‘s Geraldine Wyckoff shared Lewis’ life story. There, she wrote, “Through the decades, Ronald Lewis has played numerous roles in the New Orleans—and particularly his Lower Ninth Ward—community. He’s masked Indian and skeleton, second lined out the door with social aid and pleasure clubs, taken photographs, curated his museum, The House of Dance & Feathers, and authored a book of the same name…During Lewis’ lifetime journey in New Orleans’ African-American cultural traditions, he hasn’t wavered in his dedication no matter his role.”

As of the time of this publication, the fundraiser has reached more than $6,000 of its $10,000 goal. Click here to support the effort.