Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer caused by sun exposure. It develops in the basal cell layer of the skin when UV rays damage DNA and cause mutations. Fair skinned individuals with blonde or red hair and light colored eyes have the highest risk. While basal cell carcinoma typically does not spread to other organs, it can grow and cause tissue destruction if not treated early. The document then describes the author's personal experience with basal cell carcinoma due to a lifetime of extensive sun exposure without adequate protection, and their subsequent biopsy, Mohs surgery, and recovery process.