Rachel purkey

Connect What inspired your most recent tattoo?

Truthfully? It looked like a fun piece for my bellybutton. But, my most recent emotional tattoo? I have what I call my graveyard leg. My mom, grandpa, grandma, and family dog, all have a memorial piece on the leg. (And some serial killers) But, obviously I've experienced a lot of loss, and they were all very important to me.

If your ink could speak, what would it say?

This person has had many experiences. Good, bad, silly, traumatic. And each tattoo is like a map of my own life and mental health. (And maybe some hyperfixations) I'm a person who struggles with mental and emotional struggles and diagnoses, as do my children. My story of caring for my mother through her disease, and raising 3 kids primarily alone. It's a whirlwind.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I'd fix and sell my car and get a more reliable vehicle for me and my kids. Some special needs require many appointments, and I work. I'd also get us into healthier, safer housing. The home is old, and with many concerns, but we had to take what we could at the moment and it's not ideal. But, poverty keeps you ill. AND, FINALLY take my kids to a real beach to see the ocean for the first time. It's a vacation dream!