CNN iReport

Let me start out by saying I'm not one of those rebellious types. My tattoos are an extension of who I am, and I personally believe they're my contribution to art. Every tattoo I have, and I have ten of them, is a reminder of something or some time that is very important in my life. As a Paramedic and a Firefighter I work in a profession that is 90% male dominated and have to work hard to prove my self time and again. My job also is about professional image. I would not allow some slob with a dirty ambulance take my mother anywhere, no matter how sick she is. I provide comfort and security to people day in and day out. The way the older generations were raised tattoos were seen in a lesser light than they are today, and never approved of. Several times I've had patients give me a stern lecture on how they make me look like a tramp. Most of the time they'll retract their statements when I tell them what they stand for, or what they mean to me. I will admit that two of my tattoos are more of a rite of passage. I have a star of life and a maltese cross, both of which I received when I finished my Paramedic and Firefighter training. I do not regret any tattoos I've received, and plan to get many more. But when I do get some more ink, I'll think it through and plan carefully. I love my art, but that doesn't mean everyone else will.