Scars as a Symbol of Growth and Healing
Scars are often seen as marks of damage and pain, but they can also symbolize growth and healing. This is the case for the O’Briant family, who recently went viral on social media for their touching tribute to their son and brother’s battle with bone cancer.
16-Year-Old Jasper’s Journey with Osteosarcoma
Jasper, a 16-year-old boy who enjoys building Legos and solving Rubik’s cubes, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in October 2020. According to a report published by the National Institutes of Health, this type of bone cancer affects less than 5,000 children and adolescents.
Jasper’s life changed drastically when he experienced arm pain during baseball practice. After several appointments, he was given the devastating news of his cancer diagnosis. Despite the challenges he faced with chemotherapy, he always had the unwavering support of his family.
A Tattoo to Honor Jasper’s Battle with Cancer
To honor Jasper’s battle with cancer, his father and older brother decided to get matching tattoos to symbolize the scar on his arm. “We had all said, ‘Oh, that would be a great thing to do together,'” said Nathan, the older brother in dialogue with Good Morning America. “I was totally on board when we discussed it. There was never a second doubt in my mind as to what was going to happen there. It was something I wanted to do right away for him,” he continued.
This touching gesture speaks volumes about the love and support the O’Briant family has for one another, and the incredible strength and resilience Jasper has shown throughout his journey with cancer.
Symbolic Tattoos to Bring Comfort and Healing
The family chose to have their tattoos done by artist Mike Diaz at Sunken City Ink in Lubbock. Diaz works with clients who have undergone mastectomies or have scars from various situations and helps them restore their confidence and comfort through tattoos.
“I can help people in situations where tattoos can heal and help bring comfort in certain situations,” Diaz said. The O’Briant family’s tattoos are a beautiful symbol of the healing power of love and family support during difficult times.
