In the fall of 2018, I had my first mammogram.

Within two months I had two biopsies, two ultrasounds, an MRI, and a lumpectomy, I was diagnosed with 2 different types of precancerous cells, and I learned that I have a genetic mutation that pre-disposes me to several types of cancer including breast. Needless to say it was a whirlwind!

In February 2019 I had a risk reducing double mastectomy and the pathology report revealed that I had literally been millimeters from having breast cancer as the cells were migrating through the ductal wall. I was incredibly grateful to be healthy and thrilled with the results of my DIEP flap and nipple reconstruction, but still had a wall of white looking me in the mirror every day, reminding me of all my body and spirit had been through.

Finding out Cooper was becoming certified to do restorative tattoos was an answer to prayer, especially because she had been such a meaningful part of my medical team through my decision making and recovery process. When I went for my first tattooing appointment I found her treatment room to be so warm and welcoming, it felt more like I was at a spa treatment than at a medical procedure because of the care she took in creating the environment. Once I was settled in the chair, she worked to find the color combination that looked the most natural to me, tweaking it several times until it felt right and repeatedly emphasizing that she wanted me to feel happy with how it looked. I felt no pain and honestly just enjoyed getting to hang out and chat with her while she worked.

The time passed quickly, and I could not BELIEVE how great they looked when she finished! I thought it might take a while before they didn’t look strange after having seen a blank canvas for two years, but my brain adapted immediately and it is hard to remember them looking any other way. I’m still amazed at the difference when I look back at the before tattoopictures I took.

Seeing a natural looking pigmentation restored not only finished the physical reconstruction process, but more importantly it has helped complete the mental process, allowing me to have a marked ending to that portion of my health journey. I am so grateful Cooper has chosen to use her gifts in this manner, and she could not have picked a more appropriate name for her business for she truly restored beauty to my body. I cannot recommend her highly enough, this community is so fortunate to have her warmth, skill, and passion as we strive to embrace our new reflection.

~ J.S.