Tattoos are more than just skin deep; they are often powerful expressions of personal narratives, beliefs, and milestones. For individuals navigating the challenges of brain tumors, tattoos can become profound emblems of strength and resilience. Across the brain tumor community, many have chosen to mark their journeys with ink, transforming their experiences into lasting symbols of survival, hope, and inner fortitude. This article delves into 15 inspiring stories from members of this resilient community, each sharing the unique meaning behind their Strength Tattoo. Discover how these tattoos serve not only as personal testaments but also as sources of daily inspiration and reminders of the battles they have overcome. Whether it’s a vibrant image, a meaningful quote, or a symbolic representation of their journey, these strength tattoos are a testament to the unwavering human spirit in the face of adversity.
Stacy A. in San Francisco, CA (meningioma)
A vibrant tattoo showing a brain character with arms, legs, a bandage on its head, and a lightning bolt for alt text "Strength tattoo depicting a cartoon brain character symbolizing resilience and humor after brain tumor treatment".
Celebrating each year of survival, Stacy A. has turned getting a tattoo into a powerful annual tradition. For her fifth “tumorversary,” she chose a design bursting with color and joy – a cartoon brain character complete with arms, legs, a lightning bolt, and a playful bandage. This strength tattoo embodies her approach to facing a serious illness: embracing positivity and finding humor amidst the constant battle of living with a brain tumor. The lightning bolt symbolizes her “bionic brain,” a nod to her brain stimulator and radiation treatments, while the cheerful design acts as a constant “cheerleader” on her arm, offering a visual high-five during tough moments.
Tip: Considering your first strength tattoo? Stacy recommends testing the waters by drawing on yourself for a couple of days to ensure you love the placement and concept. Having faced brain surgery and numerous medical procedures, she emphasizes that tattoo pain is minimal in comparison, a comforting thought for anyone apprehensive about the needle.
Lisa B. in Thurmont, MD (pituitary tumor)
Lisa B.’s first visible tattoo is a deeply personal emblem of her strength journey through two brain tumors. Placed close to her heart on her left arm, this strength tattoo is a custom floral design crafted from colored ribbons. The grey ribbons are central to its meaning, representing her experiences with brain tumors, the various treatments she has undergone, and their lasting impact. Over nine years, this tattoo has transformed into a potent reminder of her survival and a symbol of embracing her journey without reservation. After years of concealing the effects of her tumors and treatments, Lisa’s strength tattoo empowers her to openly share her story and acknowledge the ongoing effects, transitioning from shame to strength, both inside and out.
Tip: Lisa’s advice for getting a strength tattoo is to prioritize finding a reputable artist. Share your ideas, carefully review their sketch, and don’t rush the decision. If the design doesn’t resonate with you, don’t hesitate to ask for revisions or seek out another artist who better understands your vision.
Kathryn B. in Orwigsburg, PA (meningioma)
Kathryn B.’s strength tattoo is a poignant tapestry of personal milestones intertwined with the challenges of a brain tumor. Conceived after discovering she was pregnant and had a brain tumor in the same week, this tattoo commemorates her survival and celebrates her family. The design incorporates a grey ribbon for brain tumor awareness, red and white flowers and a bow representing a pulmonary embolism complication, and Disney-inspired elements – ears and lettering – symbolizing a cherished family trip taken before her brain surgery. This trip was a “just in case” moment, underscoring the uncertainty she faced. This strength tattoo visually binds together difficult times with joyful memories, transforming potential setbacks into sources of uplifting strength and a constant reminder of what she has overcome.
Tip: Kathryn encourages others to consider strength tattoos that incorporate elements that spark happiness and empowerment. Positioning it where you can easily see it provides a continuous source of strength. For Kathryn, her tattoo serves as a daily affirmation: “If I could make it through all of that, I can do anything.”
Courtney B. in Saint Paul, MN (astrocytoma)
As a hospital medicine physician living with brain cancer, Courtney B. chose the lotus flower as her strength tattoo, a symbol rich in cultural, spiritual, and metaphorical meaning. For Courtney, “brain cancer is my mud,” referencing the lotus flower’s unique ability to bloom beautifully from muddy waters. This strength tattoo embodies the powerful message “No mud, no lotus,” reminding her daily of the unexpected gifts and perspectives her diagnosis has brought into her life. Her tattoo depicts a lotus growing directly from a grey brain cancer ribbon, visually representing resilience and the ability to find beauty and growth even in the midst of adversity. It also serves as a conversation starter, raising awareness about brain cancer.
Tip: Courtney stresses the importance of consulting your medical team before getting a strength tattoo, especially during chemotherapy or radiation. Tattooing can pose risks of bleeding and infection at certain points in treatment, so it’s crucial to ensure your health and safety are prioritized by minimizing these risks.
Julia C. in Buffalo, NY (astrocytoma)
Julia C.’s strength tattoo is small in size but immense in personal significance, representing a pivotal moment of faith during her brain tumor journey. In the whirlwind of her initial MRI and pre-diagnosis anxiety, a friend shared a worship song with lyrics that resonated deeply with her situation. This song became her anchor of hope and a constant source of strength throughout her treatment and recovery. The tattoo, taken from the song’s bridge – “Rain came, wind blew, but my house was built on You” – is a powerful declaration of her unwavering faith. This strength tattoo is a daily reminder of her firm foundation and the confidence, peace, and joy she found even during the toughest times, extending its message of resilience far beyond her brain tumor experience.
Tip: Julia advises careful consideration before getting a strength tattoo. Initially considering a brain image, she opted for a more positive and universally meaningful symbol instead of a direct reminder of painful times. Choose a design that carries a powerful and positive message for you personally, ensuring it remains meaningful over time.
Mark C. in San Francisco, CA (oligodendroglioma)
Mark C.’s strength tattoo is uniquely personal: a detailed replica of his MRI scan. This first and only tattoo embodies acceptance, memorialization, and gratitude. It represents his acceptance of his brain tumor as part of his identity, memorializes a period of stability in his health, and expresses gratitude for his support system and access to excellent medical care. The tattoo artist meticulously recreated the MRI with incredible precision, mirroring the scan image side-by-side. For Mark, this strength tattoo needed to be personal, reflective of his identity, and relevant for life. The MRI image, capturing a significant moment in his health journey, fulfilled all these criteria. Placed on his upper arm, it symbolizes “wearing it on your sleeve” – not hiding his experience – while also allowing for discretion depending on sleeve length.
Tip: Mark recommends thoughtful consideration for anyone contemplating a strength tattoo. Reflect carefully on what you want to express and remember that a tattoo is a permanent decision. Choose something that will hold lasting personal meaning and relevance throughout your life.
Danielle K. in Danbury, CT (glioblastoma)
A strength tattoo showing a half brain and half gladiolus flower design on a forearm for alt text "Strength tattoo of a half brain merging into gladiolus flowers symbolizing resilience in fighting glioblastoma".
Danielle K.’s strength tattoo journey began impulsively, just days after her glioblastoma diagnosis, with a “F Brain Cancer” tattoo. Expanding her body art, this particular tattoo focuses directly on her brain cancer experience. Inspired by online designs, her strength tattoo is a striking half-brain, half-gladiolus flower. The gladiolus, known as one of the strongest flowers, was chosen to represent her fierce determination and resilience in battling glioblastoma. This design is a personal declaration that the disease “chose the wrong candidate,” symbolizing her commitment to demonstrating unwavering strength. Positioned on her forearm for visibility, the flowers are placed on the left side from the viewer’s perspective, aligning with her left temporal lobe tumor and symbolically positioning strength against the disease.
Tip: Danielle shares practical advice regarding tattoo placement and artist selection. She notes that inner arm areas can be surprisingly painful. More importantly, she emphasizes the need to “jive” with your tattoo artist – ensuring a comfortable, clean, and reputable environment, and establishing a positive connection with the artist to enhance the overall experience.
Stephanie K. in Los Angeles, CA (meningioma)
A strength tattoo showing surgery dates in a vertical line on an arm for alt text "Strength tattoo listing surgery dates as milestones of survival and empowerment".
Stephanie K.’s strength tattoo is a minimalist yet powerful timeline of survival. It lists the dates of her craniotomy for a grapefruit-sized meningioma and subsequent double mastectomy for breast cancer, both within a short span. These dates – “Craniotomy 2.24.22” and breast surgery dates – are not just dates; they are milestones of her incredible journey. Every glance at this strength tattoo fills her with empowerment, pride, and immense gratitude. Created by a local artist who resonated with her story, this tattoo was conceived quickly and executed freehand, emphasizing its personal and spontaneous nature. Its discreet design, visible only when she chooses to share it, holds profound personal meaning as a daily reminder of her resilience and survivorship.
Tip: Stephanie advises trusting your intuition when selecting an artist for your strength tattoo. Finding an artist who understands and connects with your story can enhance the experience. She also stresses the importance of making personal choices without seeking external validation, allowing the tattoo to be a deeply personal expression that speaks directly to you.
Savannah M. in Dayton, TN (ependymoma)
Four matching butterfly strength tattoos on family members forearms for alt text "Matching butterfly strength tattoos symbolizing family unity and hope in cancer journey".
Butterflies have always held a special significance for Savannah M., symbolizing elegance, freedom, and gentle strength. This affinity deepened after her diagnosis with ependymoma, as the butterfly is also the symbol for this specific type of brain tumor. Her strength tattoo story is intertwined with family and remembrance. Following the loss of her grandmother and experiencing comforting dreams, butterflies became a symbol of connection and reassurance. When diagnosed with brain cancer, her mother dreamt of butterflies and a message from her grandmother: “When you see butterflies, think of me and know I’m with you.” This led Savannah and her family – parents and brother – to get matching butterfly tattoos. This strength tattoo represents their collective journey through cancer, symbolizing unity, strength, and hope for the future, serving as a constant source of comfort and resilience.
Tip: Savannah’s advice is straightforward: if you are considering a strength tattoo inspired by your cancer journey, go for it. She emphasizes that it’s a lasting and impactful decision, a permanent reminder of your strength and growth. Like a butterfly’s transformation, a strength tattoo can symbolize turning negative experiences into something beautiful and meaningful.
Tommy M. in Chicago, IL (astrocytoma)
Tommy M.’s strength tattoo is inspired by music and his newfound passion for running. During his recovery from surgery and radiation for astrocytoma, music, particularly Led Zeppelin, became a source of solace and motivation. Their song “Ramble On” resonated deeply, its lyrics mirroring his brain tumor journey. This song became his anthem, played at the start of every walk and now as he crosses the finish line of every race. His strength tattoo, featuring lyrics from “Ramble On,” is placed on his leg, symbolizing the physical journey he has undertaken. From disliking running to completing marathons and ultramarathons, Tommy’s legs have carried him through challenges and adventures, reflecting his resilience and determination.
Tip: Tommy suggests researching tattoo shops and artists thoroughly through social media or in-person visits. Seeking recommendations from friends or family who have tattoos can also lead you to a reputable and skilled artist who can bring your strength tattoo vision to life.
Alex N. in McMinnville, OR (oligodendroglioma)
Alex N.’s strength tattoo is a powerful Polish proverb: “Po każdej burzy, tęcza,” which translates to “After every storm, a rainbow” or, more loosely, “Every cloud has a silver lining.” This saying deeply resonated with her after her oligodendroglioma diagnosis, encapsulating her belief in maintaining a positive attitude and finding good even in the worst situations. This first and only tattoo was a carefully considered decision, contemplated for over a year. Her mother decided to get a matching strength tattoo, creating a shared symbol of resilience. Placed on her right wrist, it’s a visible yet discreet reminder of inner strength, accessible for personal reflection whenever she needs encouragement.
Tip: Alex emphasizes the importance of thoughtful planning for a strength tattoo. She invested significant time in choosing the quote, font, and placement. Using temporary tattoo mockups helped her visualize and confirm the wrist as the most meaningful and accessible location for her daily reminder of strength.
Cathy O. in Castaic, CA (astrocytoma)
Three Snoopy strength tattoos depicting meditation, dancing, and radiating love for alt text "Collection of Snoopy strength tattoos representing peace, joy, and love as coping mechanisms".
Cathy O.’s strength tattoos are a playful yet profound collection of Snoopy images, each representing a key lesson learned through her brain tumor journey. As a lifelong Snoopy fan, she chose Snoopy for his versatile and positive character. Her strength tattoos include meditative Snoopy for acceptance and peace, dancing Snoopy for presence and happiness, and radiating love Snoopy for the paramount importance of love. Starting with dancing Snoopy and adding more over time, her tattoos have become a joyful and constant reminder of these valuable life lessons. Cathy embraces the potential for more Snoopy strength tattoos, highlighting the uplifting and even “addictive” nature of meaningful body art.
Tip: Cathy recommends using temporary tattoos to experiment with designs and placement before committing to permanent ink. Henna and InkBox temporary tattoos helped her finalize size and location. She also advises seeking a paramedical tattoo artist using medical-grade ink, especially considering medical procedures like MRIs, ensuring safety and compatibility.
Heather O. in Rockwall, TX (meningioma)
Heather O.’s strength tattoo is a direct and powerful representation of her brain tumor experience: her MRI scan. Facing invisible deficits from her meningioma, surgery, and complications, she encountered minimizing comments about her recovery. These remarks, downplaying the severity of her ordeal, contrasted sharply with her reality – 17 days in ICU, extensive rehab, and ongoing challenges. Her strength tattoo is her unmissable reality check, showcasing the actual damage in her brain as depicted in a post-surgery MRI. The purple shading highlights the meningioma, making it visually impactful. This tattoo isn’t about seeking pity; it’s about validation and self-affirmation, a reminder of her “badass” resilience. Visible only when she chooses, it’s placed on her right shoulder, near her arm, which has been most affected by her deficits.
Tip: Heather advises considering both placement and personal meaning when choosing a strength tattoo related to your journey. Her MRI tattoo is intentionally “in-your-face” when visible, reflecting her desire to assert her experience and validate her ongoing challenges and strength.
Stephanie Q. in Dallas, TX (astrocytoma)
Stephanie Q.’s strength tattoo is a fusion of poetry and symbolism, designed to combat fear and grief following her terminal diagnosis at 31. “Still I Rise,” from Maya Angelou’s powerful poem, is the core message, resonating with her trauma and providing a sense of solidarity and unwavering resolve. Paired with a sun, it symbolizes resilience and the promise of a new beginning each day, even in the face of mortality. This strength tattoo was conceived during a significant trip to Iceland, a journey undertaken to reclaim joy and prove that life wasn’t over. Her husband proposed during this trip, solidifying it as a symbol of hope and resilience amidst adversity. The tattoo is placed in a visible spot, a constant reminder of her ability to rise above scanxiety and fears, especially during MRIs where she feels vulnerable.
Tip: Stephanie recommends defining the purpose of your strength tattoo. For her, it was to combat fear, leading her to design a tattoo that directly addressed and countered her anxieties. She emphasizes that while a tattoo won’t erase grief or trauma, a meaningful design can provide strength and courage. She also advises scheduling tattoo appointments well in advance of MRIs and informing the MRI team about new tattoos.
Amanda S. in Norristown, PA (ganglioglioma)
A strength tattoo showing a brain with mechanical gears on one side and flowers on the other, adorned with a gray ribbon for alt text "Intricate strength tattoo of a brain divided by gears and flowers, symbolizing logic, creativity, and brain tumor survivorship".
Amanda S.’s strength tattoo is a visually rich and deeply personal representation of her survivorship. Years after her brain tumor diagnosis, she received this tattoo as a “craniversary” gift, based on artwork created by her tattoo artist for her Race For Hope team t-shirts. The design is a detailed brain, divided into two symbolic halves. One side features mechanical gears, representing logic and methodical thinking, while the other side is adorned with flowers and petals, symbolizing creativity and artistic expression. A gray ribbon at the top signifies brain tumor survivorship. This strength tattoo serves as a daily reminder of her survival and resilience, especially on challenging days when residual effects of her condition impact her life.
Tip: Amanda waited years after the initial artwork was created before getting her strength tattoo, ensuring the design remained meaningful and resonant over time. This thoughtful approach allowed her to confirm that the image truly represented her journey as a survivor. She also valued getting tattooed by an artist who was involved in the design process and personally known to her, creating a more collaborative and meaningful experience.
Other Helpful Tips for your Strength Tattoo Journey
-
Tom O. in Apex, NC (oligodendroglioma): “When facing my third surgery, my surgeon advised against getting a tattoo beforehand due to infection risk. Instead, my daughter used a Sharpie to give me a ‘HOPE’ shield entering the OR, and even more so exiting. After my last radiation treatment, I went directly to a tattoo artist.” Tip: Consider timing your tattoo around your treatment schedule to minimize infection risks. Temporary tattoos or Sharpie art can be meaningful alternatives pre-surgery.
-
Brenda W. in Bellevue, NE (astrocytoma): “For strength tattoos incorporating numbers or words, choose a thin font to prevent blurring over time. Collaborate with your artist to get it exactly as you want it – this is for you, so don’t let anyone sway your vision.” Tip: Font choice and artist collaboration are key to ensuring your strength tattoo looks and feels right for you.
-
Laura N. in Indianapolis, IN (oligodendroglioma): “We got group strength tattoos on feet because it was the only spot a friend didn’t have tattooed. Avoid your foot! It’s incredibly painful!!” Tip: Consider pain levels of different tattoo locations. Feet can be particularly sensitive.
-
Desiree J. in Edmonton, AB (astrocytoma): “Hydrate well in the days leading up to your appointment. Bring a good playlist or audiobook and sugary snacks to keep your blood sugar stable.” Tip: Proper preparation, including hydration and snacks, can make your tattoo experience more comfortable.
