I lost my brother to cancer—my closest friend. This tattoo marks that wreckage. The ship is me, still afloat. The skull, the death I carry.
Want to learn more about this competition?
Learn MoreMy brothers passing
If your ink could speak, what would it say?My ink says: ‘He lived. He mattered. He loved me, and I carry him still.’ Every line is a scar that chose to become a story.
What would you do with the $25,000?I’d invest in building a small home studio to finish my album in honor of my brother, whose memory drives my music. I’d also start college courses in psychology and business, so I can keep growing as a leader and help others find strength through struggle, just like I did. This money would fuel my purpose.
Vote for Joel Martinez to be the Inked Original while supporting a great cause! Cast your daily vote below, or make a tax-deductible donation to help provide financial and emotional support to families of children with cancer.
Body art deserves to be shown off.