Anthony Hughes

Connect What inspired your most recent tattoo?

My tattoo of Luffy with “Beat Louder, Heartbeat” is a mark of survival. Three years ago, I nearly ended my life after my ex-wife left, taking our child. I was shattered, lost in darkness. Healing wasn’t easy. One Piece became a lifeline. Luffy’s unbreakable spirit, his kindness and resolve, gave me hope when I had none. This ink reminds me that my heart still beats—and as long as it does, I will fight to live with purpose.

If your ink could speak, what would it say?

If my ink could speak, it would say: “You survived. You rose when life tried to break you.” From Luffy’s fire to the wolf’s resilience, the cross of my faith to the strength of a Godzilla skull—each piece is a chapter in my story. Pain didn’t win. I found purpose, kindness, and the will to keep going. My ink is my voice when words fail, a reminder that I am still here, still fighting, and still becoming.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000, I would start by paying off late bills and making good on promises I’ve long carried. My divorce left me in pieces—emotionally and financially—and this would be the lifeline I’ve desperately needed. As a school teacher, I work hard every day for what often feels like very little. If there’s anything left, I’d invest it into my nonprofit dream: building a tiny home village to help those without shelter find stability and hope.