stroke survivor

– The author had a stroke on June 3, 2017, and got a tattoo in 2021 to commemorate it.
– The tattoo represents the layers of a stroke, including physical aspects, the death of neurons, and damage to data transmission within and beyond the brain.
– The author had been interested in getting a tattoo for years but didn’t know what they wanted until after the stroke.
– The author initially considered a small quill pen tattoo but decided on something related to stroke.
– The author discussed ideas with their physiatrist and considered an MRI-inspired design but deemed it not dramatic enough.
– The author then considered the basal ganglia and looked at various drawings but wasn’t sure about it.
– The author researched other stroke tattoos and found a common theme of a red ribbon with the date.
– An artist named Trejen at Northwest Creations in the Ballard neighborhood was found and chosen for the tattoo.
– The artist’s use of lines, color, and mix of fantastical creatures was liked.
– The person getting the tattoo takes an anti-platelet medication called Plavix (clopidogrel) which reduces clotting in the blood.
– The article discusses the author’s experience getting a brain stroke tattoo.
– The author mentions that there is limited information about getting tattoos after a stroke, but from the tattoo community, it is concluded that it should be fine with the advice of a medical team.
– The author describes their experience getting the tattoo, mentioning that it wasn’t too painful and they made it through a 3-hour session.
– The equipment used by the artist is described as a wireless, battery-powered pen that uses different nips for different areas.
– After the first session, the tattoo is wrapped in plastic wrap for 2 hours before being washed and treated with lotion.
– The author mentions that they had to change the bandage for 3 days.
– The second session, where colors and details were added to the tattoo, took place 3 weeks later.
– The author describes the pain and compares it to BOTOX/Dysport injections.
– They mention feeling the pain at the top of their shoulder, where their arm meets the joint.
– They also mention feeling fatigued after the tattooing session.
– The next day, there was no pain unless they touched the tattoo, which felt warm like a mild sunburn.
– The author advises consulting with a doctor before getting a tattoo, considering it as fine art rather than graphic art, and staying hydrated.
– They suggest finding an artist that connects with the material and looking at artists’ work on Instagram.
– The author also advises informing the artist about any blood-related medications being taken and considers tattooing before sensation returns in case of reduced sensation.
– They recommend charging the phone battery, getting a good night’s sleep, and avoiding sleeping on the tattoo.
– They also mention that the tattoo may exude excess ink/blood/clots the first night and suggest keeping it covered to protect bedding.
– The article ends with an invitation for stroke survivors to share their stroke tattoos on social media.