Tattoos Are Self-Care

“So It Goes”

This tattoo was a gift to myself, a permanent mark on my body that has been good for my Mental Health. Sometimes when I am feeling low, it reminds me how strong I was and remember that in life “So It Goes”.

A Kurt Vonnegut quote, one of my favorites with the blood dripping off the “s”. It’s designed that way for a reason. It reminds everyday of the thousands of blood draws that were taken just below that spot throughout my cancer diagnosis, treatment, and even now during my 9th year in remission. I’m reminded of how at times we have no control over our lives, and they can change in an instant. But most importantly it reminds me that I am Resilient.

You never forget the day you’re told that you have cancer. I remember sitting on the exam table, that white paper crunching under me every time I shifted. I tried to stay focused and take it all in, keeping my composure as the doctor explained treatment and next steps. It wasn’t until he got to the part about radiation that broke me. I just had my third child a few months ago and they said I would need to stop nursing and separate from them all for several weeks after the treatment. My entire existence was about to change. It was hard, so hard. But I did it. I survived those weeks away and have endured the hundreds of blood draws that have come after.

Self-care means doing something that is good for your mental health, YOURS. And that should look different for everyone. If you want to support someone who you think needs to make self-care a priority, ASK THEM what gives them peace and joy in life and them help them find it. xo

www.kennedyglobalhr.com/mental-health