Generous strangers answer plea | Video

So when the 13-year-old learned his mate had been transferred from Hobart to Melbourne and was on the priority list for a lung transplant he sat down with his mother, Zoe, to work out what he could do to help.

Thanks to the kindness of friends, family and strangers, Jack has raised more than $25,450 in less than a week to help Scott with day-to-day expenses through an online fundraising page.

Mr Atkins, 30, lives with chronic illness cystic fibrosis, and Ms Beatty explained that his condition had deteriorated in the past several months.

"From seeing what he's like, because he's so sick, I thought I had to do something," Jack, of Launceston, said.

While Jack and Ms Beatty were overwhelmed with the support for their fundraiser they agreed it was testament to Mr Atkins' personality.

"He never ever delves in the negatives, he's just so positive, and I think that's why people have donated so much," Ms Beatty said.

Jack agreed: "He's an amazing man, we love him."

■To help Mr Atkins and his partner Hayley, visit gofundme.com/9x64jd6w.