Breast Cancer - Bourne
Richmond tattoo artist helps breast cancer survivors reclaim their bodies through empowering mastectomy tattoos.
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - For years, many breast cancer survivors have found solace in getting mastectomy tattoos, but now there is another aspect of their journey that is getting a little artwork as well.
Amy Black, owner of Amy Black Tattoos in Richmond’s Carytown neighborhood, has transformed areas of the body into works of art for more than 20 years.
However, beyond the blank canvas of the body, she is well known for her mastectomy tattoos.
In 2010, Black started doing this specialized tattooing and has partnered with breast cancer groups and medical teams across the country. The Richmond artist even founded her own non-profit, Pink Ink Fund to help financially support breast cancer patients with their post-mastectomy tattoo. Breast cancer survivors have sought Black’s skills over the years to mark their journey forward.
“I definitely think it’s a way for them to reclaim their body, their health, their power, their choice,” she said. “Their ability to choose what they want to do with themselves post-cancer treatment.”
However, for many breast cancer survivors, the scars of their journey remain - literally.
“Jan. 13 is when I found out,” said Jessica Bourne, a breast cancer survivor.
2020 was a year that impacted all of us. For Bourne, it was a bit more difficult – continuing to serve her community as a Richmond Police forensic investigator all while battling breast cancer.
“My philosophy in life is when you’re having a bad day, someone else is having a worse day,” she said.
So, after being diagnosed with stage 2-3 triple-negative breast cancer at age 26, she tried to make the best out of her time during chemo treatment.
“Nobody could go in, and thank God for the nurses because they were so amazing,” Bourne said.
https://www.12onyourside.com/2021/10/19/every-pain-every-sadness-just-disappeared-richmond-tattoo-artist-covers-up-breast-cancer-port-scars/
