Have any of you had tattoos since diagnosis? I have had a few including a leukemia ribbon. I'm the least likely person to get a tattoo and have never done it until now. I met a young man who had a number of them and I asked him why he would do that? His response? "Because it tells the story of my life". Made sense to me so I have done a few for the same reason.
Not one to take chances without some counsel, I did check with my oncologist first who told me at this point I'm at no more risk for infection than any one else. At 67, and with cancer, I figured what the heck. I must say it was a thoroughly enjoyable experience and I don't have one regret. Besides, I will get the last laugh with doctors, nurses and the mortician. 😄
Finally, I don't advise doing this without obtaining permission from your hematologisr/oncologist first. After all, tattooing deals with blood and possible infection. If you do get permission, make darn sure it is with a licensed artist who is very aware of your condition.. My artist was fantastic and took double care to make sure I was ok after I disclosed my leukemia.
Best,
RK66
The ribbon was done for two reasons:
1. To cover a scar I have always hated.
2. To let my doctors, nurses and those who take care of me know I haven't lost hope.
The other tattoo was done to let my doctors, nurses and anyone who might administer a shot or change my hospital gown that, in spite of my cancer, I haven't lost my sense of humor. You can only upload one pic on a post. The second tat is the image of a little guy pointing to his butt and it reads: "Cancer can kiss my ..,"
For those interested, I posted the pic on a second tattoo post.
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RK66
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I am covered in tattoos all done ore diagnosis. My doctor had told me that in the past there was a concern with some of the ingredients in certain inks but that if it was a reputable parlour with clean equipment it should not pose a risk. Funny thing is I haven't had the desire to get anything done. I should, needle therapy has often gotten me out of funks. Thanks for sharing that.
Hi, Yes I have, a large one done a couple of months before diagnosis, I obviously had the CLL just didn't know about it at that stage! It was finished off last month. I had checked with my consultant who was ok with it, she just wondered why I would bother! The last one did seem to take a bit longer to heal. Make sure you look after it correctly for the weeks after it is done. Clean regularly with non scented soap and keep moisturised, I personally use Bepanthem nappy cream which works really well. Seeing the consultant today for my 4 monthly check.
I may get some rabbit's tattooed on my head! From a distance they will look like hare's!
Glad to be here with you. I may not get a tattoo. But, I have begun planning a thru hike on the Appalachian Trail. My son rolled his eyes. He has been on many adventures with me. I was his Scoutmaster in the Boy Scouts. His response to his fellow scouts was, " not a good ideal to encourage my Dad". Can a old man with cll and diabetes hike for six months, maybe eight for me. Live out of a pack. Only eat what he can carry. Remember to take his medicine on his on. Without any more than a bag to sleep in. Under a tarp. Two sets of clothes. My son saids, "my biggest fear is that you are basically a Hobo". My wife smiles and discuss with my daughter what they will do that summer. My daughter teases her brother, " that can be your first film documentary ". He is a film major in college. What will the doctor's say? I think my GP passed the word that I have to be prompted to come back for appointments. Six months would be a nice rest from the constant poking. Maybe I will do it. Not to prove anything or go on an adventure. But, more what my son said. Dad, you belong were life is not easy.
Even with our challenges we have to live a happy life. This is what our creator wanted. No sin in tattoos, hiking and friendship.
Tattoos don't do it for me but I am all for doing what makes you feel good, as long as it is not hurting anyone else. Enjoy and congrats for following your desire.
Tattoos never did much for me either. I have to admit I was one of those people who tended to be a bit judgemental of those who sported them. Now that it is mainstream and I have met a lot of very nice people with tattoos, I have changed my mind. I have tried to put a purpose or a symbol of my life into each tattoo. Still of another generation, I don't flaunt mine openly. They are either below the belt line for the eyes of my wife or doctors only or on my wrists where you wouldn't really notice them. Each one has a special meaning to my life and none of them were done without serious thought or on a whim after drinking too much Tequila.
Given the right artist and a good idea, getting a tattoo can be an immensely enjoyable activity. I would suggest serious thought before someone does one because it's there forever and I would also encourage serious investigation as to the person who you would allow do it to you.
My tattoo artist said I have the highest tolerance for pain she has ever seen so I'm not one to judge by. She tells me she has big tough football players jump off the table.
According to my artist, the butt is very sensitive as is the lower stomach but I sailed through both sessions without a break. It also helped that my tattoo artist is extremely likable and a good conversationalist. We actually had fun together and she also understood the statement I was making and the reason I was doing it. I think she enjoyed being part of it.
The wrist really wasn't painful. If it is, I'm sure the artist will be understanding and allow you to take a break. Please make sure they are licensed, reputable and thorough when it comes to sanitation. Make sure you see them use a new needle and if you tell them you have leukemia they will probably use a new bottle of ink. My artist did. She did everything she could to protect me. She and I have an artistic bond forever; but, even more so, I must admit a heart bond too. She also did a very nice wrist tattoo for my wife which was my wife's first. My wife said "easy peasy".
So glad you had a great artist.....a great person also!
Thanks for the tip re: new bottle of ink. I will request a new bottle and new needle if I go ahead with a tattoo. I've given birth four times so can't be too bad haha
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