Tattoos are more than just skin deep; they are often profound expressions of personal meaning, especially for individuals navigating life’s significant challenges. For those living with brain tumors, tattoos can become potent strength symbols, visual testaments to their courage, resilience, and journeys of survival.
In this article, we delve into the deeply personal stories behind Strength Symbol Tattoos of fifteen members within the brain tumor community. Each tattoo is a unique narrative of significance, emotion, and the arduous paths they’ve traversed. These inked emblems serve as daily sources of inspiration during difficult times, marks of survival etched onto their skin, and visual anchors to personal mantras that guide them forward. Discover how these individuals have transformed their experiences into permanent art, each telling a story of unwavering strength in the face of adversity.
Stacy A. Lisa B. Kathryn B. Courtney B. Julia C. Mark C. Danielle K. Stephanie K. Savannah M. Tommy M. Alex N. Cathy O. Heather O. Stephanie Q. Amanda S.
Personal Strength Tattoo Stories from Brain Tumor Survivors
Stacy A.: Celebrating Milestones with a “Bionic Brain” Tattoo
San Francisco, CA (meningioma)
Colorful brain tattoo with arms, legs, lightning bolt, and bandage, symbolizing resilience and humor in brain tumor survival.
For Stacy A., tattoos are celebratory markers of survival. Each year on her “tumorversary,” she gets a new tattoo to commemorate another year passed. Her fifth-year tattoo is a vibrant, whimsical brain character, designed to bring joy and act as a personal cheerleader. “A serious thing like a brain tumor is such a constant battle that I try to celebrate the wins that I have,” Stacy explains. “When I am having a hard time, I just look at it, and my brain gives me a high five.”
The playful brain is adorned with a lightning bolt, symbolizing a brain stimulator and radiation treatments, which Stacy humorously refers to as her “bionic brain.” It’s a daily reminder to maintain positivity and find humor even amidst life’s toughest battles.
Stacy’s Tip for First-Timers: “If it is your first tattoo, I would suggest drawing something on yourself to see if you like having it for a day or two.” She also reassures those nervous about needle pain, emphasizing that tattoos are “NOTHING pain-wise compared to what most of us have gone through.”
Lisa B.: Gray Ribbons as a Symbol of a Survived Journey
Thurmont, MD (pituitary tumor)
Lisa B.’s first visible tattoo, placed close to her heart on her left arm, is a beautifully designed flower composed of colored ribbons. Among these, gray ribbons stand out as a poignant strength symbol of her journey through two brain tumors, various treatments, and their profound impact on her life.
“Over the past nine years, it has become a reminder to me that my journey is what it is, and I have survived,” Lisa shares. For years, she kept her struggles hidden, but the tattoo has become a symbol of liberation and acceptance. “This is my reminder to be OK with telling people and being OK with the effects the treatment had and is still having on me — that I am strong enough to transition from being ashamed… to being strong inside and out.”
Lisa’s Tattoo Tip: “Find a reputable tattoo artist. Give them ideas and then evaluate their sketch. Do not make any hurried decisions. And if you do not love the sketch, have the artist redo it or find a different artist.”
Kathryn B.: Disney Magic and Gray Ribbon Strength
Orwigsburg, PA (meningioma)
Kathryn B.’s tattoo is a powerful amalgamation of personal milestones and resilience. Conceived after facing pregnancy news and a brain tumor diagnosis in the same week, it represents overcoming multiple hardships. A family trip to Disney World, taken before her brain tumor removal surgery, became a cherished memory she wanted to encapsulate.
The tattoo combines a gray ribbon for her brain tumor, red and white flowers with a bow symbolizing a pulmonary embolism complication, and Disney-inspired elements. The Disney ears and writing evoke happy memories and the escapism Disney provides. For Kathryn, it’s a reminder of survival and the joy of motherhood amidst adversity. “Putting the negative together with something that had positive memories for me enabled me to think of it all together. Turning that which would bring me down and use it to lift me up.”
Kathryn’s Tip for Empowerment: “I would encourage you to think of what makes you happy or empowered and put it in a place you could see to remind you… Each time I have a rough patch, I can see my tattoo and think, ‘If I could make it through all of that, I can do anything.'”
Courtney B.: Lotus Flower Blooming from “Mud” of Brain Cancer
Saint Paul, MN (astrocytoma)
Dr. Courtney B., a hospital medicine physician living with brain cancer, chose the lotus flower as her strength symbol tattoo. The lotus, growing from mud, resonates deeply with her journey. “Brain cancer is my ‘mud’,” Courtney explains, drawing inspiration from Thich Nhat Hanh’s teaching, “No mud, no lotus.”
Her tattoo depicts a lotus blossoming from a gray brain cancer ribbon, visually representing beauty emerging from hardship. It serves as a daily reminder to find gifts and positive perspectives even amidst the “mud” of brain cancer. Beyond personal inspiration, Courtney hopes her tattoo acts as a conversation starter to increase brain cancer awareness.
Courtney’s Medical Timing Tip: “I would make sure to discuss the timing with your medical team! It can be dangerous to get a tattoo at certain times during chemotherapy or radiation therapy. It’s important to make sure your risk of bleeding and infection is minimized when you get your tattoo.”
Julia C.: Faith as Foundation in a Storm-Themed Tattoo
Buffalo, NY (astrocytoma)
Julia C.’s small yet deeply meaningful tattoo is inspired by a worship song that became her anchor during her brain tumor journey. On the day of her first MRI, a friend sent her a song whose lyrics resonated profoundly, becoming a “pillar of hope” rooted in her faith.
The tattoo represents the bridge of the song, with lyrics, “Rain came, wind blew, but my house was built on You.” For Julia, these words symbolize unwavering faith and a firm foundation amidst life’s storms. It’s a daily assurance of strength and direction, extending beyond her brain tumor experience to all of life’s challenges. “It perfectly represents that no matter what life hands me, I have a firm foundation upon which to rest.”
Julia’s Tattoo Consideration Tip: “For anyone considering a tattoo, I would say just to really think about it before you get it! … I chose a tattoo that, for me, carried a powerful and meaningful message, but that was also positive!”
Mark C.: MRI Scan as a Mark of Acceptance and Gratitude
San Francisco, CA (oligodendroglioma)
Mark C.’s strength symbol tattoo is uniquely personal – it’s a precise replica of his MRI scan. This first and only tattoo is a powerful statement of acceptance, a memorial to a “stable” point in his journey, and a constant reminder of gratitude for his support system and access to quality care.
The meticulous detail of the tattoo, mirroring his actual MRI, reflects Mark’s thoughtful approach. He chose this image as it met his criteria for a meaningful, personal, and enduring tattoo. With his family’s support, he placed it on his upper arm, symbolizing “wearing it on your sleeve” while also allowing for discretion when desired. “While it’s important to me because there is a clinical aspect to it, I wanted to reserve the option to be discreet.”
Mark’s Enduring Tattoo Tip: “I’d recommend that they think about what they want carefully and consider the fact that it will be around forever.”
Danielle K.: Half-Brain, Half-Gladiolus: A Symbol of Unyielding Strength
Danbury, CT (glioblastoma)
Half brain and half gladiolus flower tattoo on forearm, representing resilience and strength against brain cancer.
Danielle K.’s journey with tattoos intensified after her glioblastoma diagnosis, starting with a defiant “F Brain Cancer” tattoo. However, she felt a need for a tattoo specifically symbolizing her strength against brain cancer. This led to an impulsive yet profound decision during a tattoo session with her sisters.
Inspired by online images, Danielle conceived a half-brain, half-gladiolus flower tattoo. Gladiolus flowers, known for their strength, perfectly represent her resolve to fight. “We chose flowers with strength to represent (and encourage) the fact that this disease has chosen the wrong candidate, and I will continue to demonstrate next-level strength as I battle.” Positioned on her forearm, visible to herself and others, it’s a constant declaration of her unwavering strength.
Danielle’s Pain and Artist Connection Tip: “The inner arm… is one of the most PAINFUL spots… Make sure you jive with your artist! … a positive connection with your tattoo artist makes a world of difference.”
Stephanie K.: Surgery Dates as a Badge of Survivor Honor
Los Angeles, CA (meningioma)
Tattoo listing surgery dates, symbolizing survival and gratitude after brain tumor and breast cancer.
Stephanie K.’s tattoo is a chronological testament to her survival. Listing her craniotomy date and breast surgery dates, it marks life-altering events that followed a seizure and subsequent diagnoses of meningioma and breast cancer. For Stephanie, the dates are not just reminders of hardship but badges of honor. “Every time I look at it, I feel empowered, proud, and nothing but gratitude.”
Created by a local artist who resonated with her story, the tattoo emerged from a desire for closure and a daily visual of her journey. The simple yet powerful design, conceived quickly and done freehand, holds immense personal significance. “These dates are precious to me and mean I’m a survivor.”
Stephanie’s Intuition and Artist Trust Tip: “I also think trusting your intuition and not getting anyone else’s opinion is important… What matters most is it speaks to you. I forced myself not to get input from anyone else aside from him.”
Savannah M.: Butterfly Symbolizing Transformation and Hope
Dayton, TN (ependymoma)
For Savannah M., the butterfly is a lifelong symbol of elegance, freedom, and gentle strength, now deeply intertwined with her brain tumor journey. Butterflies gained further significance after her Nanny’s passing, who appeared in dreams associated with butterflies, offering comfort and peace.
Diagnosed with brain cancer, Savannah discovered the butterfly is also the symbol for ependymoma. This confluence of personal and symbolic meaning led to matching butterfly tattoos for Savannah and her family. “My tattoo symbolizes my battle with cancer, as well as my strength and hope for the future.” It’s a wrist-worn reminder of resilience and the ability to overcome, mirroring the butterfly’s transformative journey.
Savannah’s Lasting Impact Tip: “My advice would be if you want to get a tattoo inspired by your cancer journey, do it. You will not regret it… It is almost like taking these negative experiences and pain you have endured and turning it into something beautiful, a reminder of your growth. It’s just like a butterfly — it starts as a caterpillar, and one day, it morphs into a beautiful butterfly.”
Tommy M.: “Ramble On” Lyrics for a Marathon of Life
Chicago, IL (astrocytoma)
Tommy M.’s strength symbol tattoo is inspired by Led Zeppelin’s “Ramble On,” a song that fueled his recovery walks after brain surgery and radiation. Relating the lyrics to his brain tumor journey, the song became a source of inspiration and motivation, now his anthem for every race finish line.
From a non-runner to a marathoner, Tommy’s leg tattoo reflects his transformed physical and mental journey. “My legs started to take me places… introducing me to new friends and new communities.” The tattoo, acquired just before running the LA Marathon for brain tumor awareness, is a tribute to his progress and future goals, placed on his leg as a symbol of his journey forward.
Tommy’s Artist Research Tip: “I would suggest researching a shop or artist you’re considering on social media or pop into their shop. Ask friends or family who have tattoos for recommendations.”
Alex N.: Polish Proverb for Silver Linings and Attitude
McMinnville, OR (oligodendroglioma)
Alex N.’s first and only tattoo is a Polish proverb: “Po każdej burzy…” meaning “Every cloud has a silver lining.” This saying resonated deeply after her brain cancer diagnosis, emphasizing the power of attitude and finding positivity even in the darkest times.
Considered for over a year, the tattoo became a shared experience with her mother, who got a matching one. Placed on her right wrist, it’s a discreet yet accessible reminder of inner strength. “My right wrist felt like the most meaningful location and somewhere that was both discrete but accessible, so I could look at it on days when I needed strength.”
Alex’s Thoughtful First Tattoo Tip: “This was my first tattoo, and I definitely put a lot of time and thought into it, down to specific fonts. I ordered some temp tattoo mockups from Inkbox and tried them on different parts of my body.”
Cathy O.: Snoopy’s Wisdom: Meditate, Dance, Love
Castaic, CA (astrocytoma)
Cathy O.’s strength symbol tattoos feature Snoopy, a lifelong favorite character embodying versatility and positivity. Her tattoos depict three Snoopy personas: Meditative Snoopy for acceptance and peace, Dancing Snoopy for presence and happiness, and Radiating Love Snoopy for the primacy of love.
Starting with Dancing Snoopy, Cathy’s collection grew, reflecting her gratitude for lessons learned through her diagnosis. Using temporary tattoos beforehand helped her decide on placement and size, ensuring her tattoos were meaningful and safe, especially considering MRIs. “My tattoos are reminders to remember the lessons… Before getting my first tattoo, I found it helpful to get temporary tattoos that were the same as I was thinking.”
Cathy’s Temporary Tattoo and Safe Ink Tip: “Before getting my first tattoo, I found it helpful to get temporary tattoos that were the same as I was thinking… I also go to a paramedical tattoo artist who uses medical-grade ink. Because of MRIs, I wanted to be sure it was safe.”
Heather O.: MRI as a Visual Declaration of an Invisible Battle
Rockwall, TX (meningioma)
Heather O.’s strength symbol tattoo is a powerful response to the minimizing comments she received about her invisible deficits after brain tumor surgery. Her MRI, showing the lasting impact of her tumor and treatment, became the ultimate symbol of her battle.
The tattoo, depicting her MRI with purple highlighting the meningioma area, is a visual declaration of her reality and resilience. “It’s not an excuse or a pity party. It’s my reality, and it reminds me I’m a badass.” It validates her ongoing struggles and serves as a reminder of her strength when facing feelings of inadequacy. Placed on her right shoulder, it subtly represents the arm most affected by her challenges.
Heather’s Placement and Meaning Tip: “Think about placement for sure and what’s meaningful to you in this journey. Mine is very in-your-face if I happen to show it.”
Stephanie Q.: “Still I Rise” and a Sun for Unyielding Courage
Dallas, TX (astrocytoma)
Stephanie Q.’s strength symbol tattoo combines Maya Angelou’s empowering poem “Still I Rise” with a sun, embodying courage and resilience in the face of a terminal diagnosis. The poem’s message of overcoming trauma resonated deeply, while the sun symbolizes constant renewal and rising after every setback.
Getting the tattoo in Reykjavík, Iceland, during a trip taken to reclaim joy after her diagnosis, marked a defiant act against cancer. Faced with scanxiety and the isolation of MRIs, Stephanie placed the tattoo in a visible spot to remind herself of her strength. “When deciding on the tattoo’s location, I chose a visible spot that I could see at any time to remind myself of my ability to rise above all of my fears and trauma.”
Stephanie’s Tattoo Purpose and MRI Alert Tip: “My recommendation would be to think about what you want the tattoo to do for you… I would also recommend keeping the tattoo appointment as far as possible from any upcoming MRIs. I also alert the MRI team when I have new tattoos that haven’t been scanned before.”
Amanda S.: Mechanical Brain and Flowers: A Survivor’s Badge of Pride
Norristown, PA (ganglioglioma)
Brain tattoo with mechanical gears on one side and flowers on the other, symbolizing logical and creative aspects of the brain, and gray ribbon for brain tumor survival.
Amanda S.’s brain tumor tattoo is a cherished symbol of survival, evolving from artwork created for her Race For Hope team t-shirts. Gifted as a “craniversary” present, it’s a personalized design reflecting both the logical and creative aspects of the brain.
The tattoo depicts a brain with mechanical gears on the right side, symbolizing methodical thinking, and flowers on the left, representing creativity. A gray ribbon on top signifies her survivor status. “I see it and smile, especially on days that are challenging… seeing it is a reminder that I survived the most difficult thing I’ve had to go through.” For Amanda, it’s a proud and lasting symbol of her journey and resilience.
Amanda’s Time and Personalization Tip: “I waited several years after my artist created the image to actually get it tattooed. I wanted to make sure that the image was something I loved over time, and it still represented my idea of what I wanted to showcase as a survivor. Every year at the race I was even more sure that I wanted it to be part of my body…”
Additional Helpful Tattoo Tips from the Community:
- Tom O. (oligodendroglioma): Timing and Temporary Options: Consider temporary tattoos or body art before surgery to avoid infection risks and mark milestones post-treatment.
- Brenda W. (astrocytoma): Font Choice and Artist Collaboration: Choose thin fonts for numbers or words to prevent blurring over time. Collaborate closely with your artist to ensure your vision is realized.
- Laura N. (oligodendroglioma): Placement Considerations: Foot tattoos can be particularly painful; consider less sensitive areas.
- Desiree J. (astrocytoma): Preparation for Tattoo Session: Hydrate well before your appointment, bring a playlist or audiobook for distraction, and have sugary snacks to maintain blood sugar levels during longer sessions.
These strength symbol tattoos are more than just ink; they are deeply personal narratives of survival, resilience, and hope. They offer daily strength, mark journeys of immense challenge, and connect these individuals within a community of shared experience. For anyone considering a tattoo to commemorate their own journey, these stories and tips offer valuable insights and inspiration.
