This was a super emotional piece for me to work on, and I want to shout out to Michelle for entrusting me with such an important and meaningful project. The lotus flower over her heart is dedicated to her husband who very recently passed away due to cancer. This particular flower was chosen because of how deep its roots grow, causing it to be difficult to pull out of the earth by the roots, which holds a lot of symbolism for the two of them. For those who don't know, I lost my father to cancer nearly six years ago. Much of the conversation between Michelle and her daughter (who was with during the tattoo for moral support) regarding life moving forward, firsts (holidays, birthdays, etc.) without him, and interacting with people who know the situation, really hit home for me. My heart goes out to the friends and family during their journey through healing. For everyone who is dealing with the loss of a close loved one: allow yourself and others space for grieving in whatever way fee