Saturday, February 11, 2012

Dozens of people lined up to get a free tattoo to support three kids battling cancer in the community at Bullwinkle’s Tattoo Parlor today.

"I always tell people if you're going to get a tattoo, make it meaningful. This is as meaningful as it gets," said Donna Garrett, aunt of one of the kids battling cancer.

For some people like Jayna Williamson, this was their first tattoo. It was a reminder of the pain some children face with their cancer battles.

"This is nothing compared to what they went through. These little kids that are fighting it, their families that are enduring all that pain," said Williamson.

For the family of 16-month-old Mason Meyer, this was a reinforcement of the community support that has been given to their loved one.

"You want to see support and you don't care where it comes from. It's just as long as somebody's behind you, it gives you the power to fight. I think that's how my sister feels, is she feels like 'I'm not alone. I can do this,'" said Garrett.

Organizers of the fundraiser learned about three kids' battles, including Mason who is battling brain cancer. This weekend, they used their talents to bring awareness to those battles, while raising money for the families.

"Figured with me being a tattoo artist, what better way to get people in to donate to a good cause, to help put smiles on these kids faces, by tattooing," said Dennis Allen, organizer.

About 140 people got inked with "Have A Heart" tattoos. One of those tattoos was inspired by Paxten Pearson, a little girl who lost her battle with leukemia.

"A tattoo is nothing compared to what these kids are facing. I mean nothing at all. These kids are going through something every day and the strength that these kids have is amazing," said Allen.

Although many did not know these children, they now have permanent reminders of of kids like Mason.

"I'm very grateful. There's not enough thanks in the world for all these people coming out to help," said Garrett.