Family and friends are rallying around a mother from Nova Scotia who lost her son on Christmas Day, and is trying to bring her son’s body home to Nova Scotia.

“You never really know how many people he touched until something tragic like this actually happens,” says family member Kylene Jackson.

Cory Beaver underwent a heart transplant ten years ago. He had been living in Fort McMurray, A.B., with his kids, and had plans to return home to Nova scotia.

But over the last few weeks, his health began to deteriorate. Beaver died at the age of 30.

“He always loved animals and he always just tried to help people,” says Jackson. “Whatever he could do. He was a really giving, loving, funny kind of guy.”

Beaver’s mother Lorna was recently diagnosed with liver disease, and now cannot afford to bring her son’s body home.

Jackson and others close to the family hope to reach their fundraising goal of $10,000 to bring him home through an online campaign.

“Especially during this time of year, we thank everyone for the donations,” says family friend Jennifer Markey.

Beaver’s wake will take place Friday night, with burial arrangements set for Monday.

With files from CTV Atlantic's Zeina Jriege.