Alyssa McKoy

What inspired your most recent tattoo?

Ten days after my 30th birthday, in the summer of last year, my mother passed away. She cherished nature and butterflies. Because she was known to be both kind and sweet but yet tough and vicious when crossed, I went with a butterfly with a somewhat dark twist..

If your ink could speak, what would it say?

My ink would portray both sides of myself if it had the ability to communicate. The tougher side of myself, which reflects the changes these life experiences brought about in me, as well as the innocent portions of me that I lost as a result of abuse, trauma, and severe grief. It would convey my narrative more effectively than words could.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would perform a formal ceremony for my mother. Because of financial difficulties and inadequate insurance, Mom was the only member of my family to be cremated. I would love to give her the dignified funeral she deserves.