On January 30, 2026, while peacefully attending a protest in Los Angeles, I was struck in the face by a less-lethal projectile. I was not engaged in any confrontation or violence. In an instant, everything changed.

The projectile hit my cheekbone just one centimeter from my eye. I spent the entire night in the emergency room as doctors carefully removed hundreds of fragments from my face. Some metal fragments could not be safely removed due to the risk of further complications and infection. I am continuing to receive medical care and monitoring.

The physical pain has been significant, but the emotional impact has been just as profound. Since that day, I have experienced ongoing anxiety, fear, and trauma. Everyday activities that once felt normal now feel overwhelming. Recovery has not been simple, and it has not been quick.

I attended that protest to peacefully exercise my constitutional right to assemble and express my voice. I never imagined I would leave with a facial injury that could have permanently damaged my vision.

This fundraiser is to help cover:

• Emergency medical treatment

• Ongoing specialist care

• Mental health support and trauma counseling

• Future procedures related to retained fragments

• Lost income during recovery

What happened to me has had a lasting impact on my life. I am focused on healing—physically and emotionally—and on rebuilding a sense of safety.

If you are able to donate, share, or offer words of support, it truly means more than I can express. Every contribution helps me continue my recovery and move forward.

Thank you for standing with me.

kind word gives me hope. Thank you.