Jen DeFazio

Connect What inspired your most recent tattoo?

My most recent tattoo is Famiglia per Sempre. It’s Italian for family forever. My two brothers and I all got the same tattoo, and it’s done in my dad’s handwriting. We have been through so much… the death of my mom, my dad’s remarriage, the birth of my youngest brother, their divorce, my divorce, abusive relationships, etc. this tattoo, in my dad’s hand, is a constant reminder that through it all, we have each other.

If your ink could speak, what would it say?

If my ink could speak, it would say, “Look at all she’s been through, and still she perseveres.” I have been through hell and back and build myself back from broken pieces every time. All my tattoos tell a story. My first one is for my mom who passed when I was 11. I had a plan for the breast cancer ribbon. But, then I decided that I don’t want to be inked with a reminder of how she died. I want to remember how she LIVED. So, I have the word forgiveness in Hebrew.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000, I would pay it forward. I would help those who need help finding their voice. I would use some to bless others who want to tell a story through ink. I want everyone to know they can be their authentic selves and be loved for who they are. Their past does not define them. Their story can be told through ink for all to see and appreciate.