OC Weekly music photojournalist Andrew Youssef, who gained quick notoriety following a friendly outreach from Trent Reznor, has passed away at the age of 38.

Youssef’s immense love for for music is evident in the photos he snapped for OC Weekly over the years, photos he remained dedicated to capture even after he was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer close to three years ago. The photographer also began writing the blog “Last Shot” for the publication, to chronicle his fight against cancer. An avid Nine Inch Nails fan, Youssef was overjoyed at his chance to meet the band and sit in for a few of their Tension 2013 arena tour rehearsals earlier this year.

His euphoria would continue as Reznor extended himself out to the photographer as a friend. After doctors told Youssef he should take it easy, and not attend a recent NIN show in Vegas, the frontman took it upon himself to call his new pal and FaceTime with him during the gig, dedicating the band’s performance of “In This Twilight” to him, as well.

This helped create the NIN Fans for Andrew Youssef page on Facebook, where donations were taken in to help with medical bills. Funds are still being accepted to help with funeral costs and the like, so please visit their page if you wish to contribute.