Hi, I'm Daniel, a freelance photojournalist currently living and working in Lebanon.

I recently had a biopsy of a recurring lesion on my upper lip, and the results confirmed it is basal cell carcinoma (BCC), a type of skin cancer. Because of its location on my face, my doctor recommended surgical removal, and I am now preparing for Mohs surgery and reconstruction.

I'm creating this fundraiser because, as a freelance journalist, I don't have employer-provided health insurance or paid medical leave. I have to cover the cost of the surgery, pathology, follow-up care, medications, and other medical expenses myself. I may also need to take time away from work while I recover, which creates an additional financial burden.

I'm hoping to raise enough to get through the surgery and recovery without having to choose between paying for medical treatment and covering my basic living expenses.

I don't yet know the final cost of the procedure because the extent of the tissue that needs to be removed, and the reconstruction required, will only be clear during surgery. Funds raised will go toward my medical treatment and the expenses associated with recovering and being able to return to work.

I've spent much of my career documenting and telling other people's stories, including my father's final battle with cancer when he was on hospice. It feels so strange asking for help with my own. Stranger yet is even saying, "I have cancer."

Thankfully, BCC is one of the easiest and least aggressive cancers when caught early.

If you're able to contribute, thank you. Even a small donation helps. If you aren't able to donate, please share this fundraiser. It'll mean a lot to me.

Because I am in Lebanon and no longer have a U.S. phone number, I have made my brother, Micah, my beneficiary. He will send the money to my bank account so I can receive the donations.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and for helping me get through this.