Melissa Sloan, a 46-year-old Welsh lady, has always had a love for tattoos. For the past 26 years, she has collected over 800 inks on her body. Although she faces the harsh judgment of society, Melissa remains confident and serves as a role model for her two young children.

“People have called me a ‘freak’,” Melissa admits. But she believes that tattoos, like cigarettes or drinks, can become addictive. She can’t stop getting inked, even though it makes it difficult for her to find employment. Tattoo parlors have rejected her, but that hasn’t stopped her. Melissa carries her own tattoo gun wherever she goes and has her partner give her three “prison-style” tattoos every week.

Unfortunately, Melissa’s appearance has caused her to be treated like an outcast. Whenever she leaves her house, she faces verbal attacks and mockery. People point and stare, making her feel isolated. But Melissa remains true to herself, saying, “I can’t fit in with people as I like to be me, and I’m always going to be myself.”

The challenges she faces go beyond societal judgment. Melissa has been prevented from attending school events where her children are participating because of her tattoos. But she brushes it off, telling her kids to not pay attention to the negativity. Her children, aged 8 and 10, are already intrigued by body art and proudly display temporary tattoos. Melissa encourages their creativity and tells them they can have “better ones” when they are older.

Melissa’s story is unique, and while some may argue that her tattoos go too far, her self-expression and individuality are something to be admired. Despite the difficulties she encounters, she remains a loving mother and embraces her unique style.