Welcome to A TIT 4 TAT Body Art Transformations
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Our page has been created as a site of information for individuals who have had a breast reconstruction and are also seeking to have a mastectomy tattoo. We aim to support self-efficacy, especially during such a vulnerable time.
The adinkra symbol above means transformation. My personal story shows that transformation is possible after the trauma of cancer and traumatic breast surgery. However, there is not need for toxic resilience. Together, as a community we can support each other and promote self efficacy.
Womanist Storytelling- Resist Retell & Heal
Background
Hi, my name is Jaki and I am a 59-year-old mother of three grown up sons. I am also a teacher, community leader, and PhD student. In August 2014, shortly after completing my teacher training, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I underwent a right mastectomy and axillary node clearance, followed by chemotherapy and Herceptin treatment. Due to complications after surgery, I did not have breast reconstruction until August 2022, when I opted for a PAP reconstruction. This procedure involved using skin and tissue from my lower body to create a new breast.
Unfortunately, the results were disappointing. The reconstruction left me with significant scarring, and the skin used in the transfer was mismatched in colour. I felt that my skin tone and the potential outcomes had not been properly considered in the surgical process.
HEALING OUT LOUD!
A TIT 4 TAT Mastectomy Body Art Transformations.
After the surgery, I wanted to cover the scars with a tattoo but didn’t know where to start. I was unsure about the implications of getting a tattoo on my surgery site, and I had no idea who would be the right artist for this delicate work. I realized that many others might be facing similar challenges and that there was a need for information and support specifically tailored to people with different skin tones.
This led me to the idea of creating A TIT 4 TAT Mastectomy Body Art Transformations—a resource for people of all skin shades who would benefit from reliable advocacy and support and may be seeking to reclaim their bodies through post-mastectomy tattoos.
Contact Us
Have questions, suggestions or comments? We'd love to hear from you! Contact us today and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
0794 6587437
(Photo by Julia Hawkins)
My Transformative Tattoo Journey
Mastectomy Tattoo Alliance helped me to heal
By the wonderful Jennifer Sterry at Paradise Studios in Cheltenham
I had 3 whole day sessions over 7 months
Thank You!
Thanks to Jennifer Sterry and Mastectomy Tattoo Alliance. I am so grateful for this wonderful transformational tattoo! Words can hardly express my appreciation for the care, consideration I recieved during my tattoo sessions.
I always felt in safe hands as Jen a fine art, tattoo artist, also understood breast cancer reconstruction - and in particular my surgery, which was a pap reconstruction. She was adept at considering the right colours that would suit my skin tone and beautify my scars.
Jen has blessed me with this work of art and helped me to heal. Bless all at MTA for what they do for women emerging out of trauma.