Tattoo frees burn victim to bear scars

Ms de Vos says her flower tattoo hides the scars she has struggled with since aged 4.

There's not a day goes by Napier woman Melinda de Vos isn't burdened by scars received as a child from a chemical burn. But she is hoping the generosity of others may change that.

At the age of 4, Ms de Vos was in a chemical fire explosion leaving her with third degree burns to her hands, arms and face.

Between the ages of 4 and 16, Ms de Vos had operations to repair the damage, including grafting of skin from her leg. But she was left with significant scarring.

It's something she is self-conscious about and will not wear any clothing revealing her scars.

"A day never passes when I don't feel the burden of the scars on my body. What happened to me was an accident. I hold no blame and it is what it is. But it doesn't mean I don't feel like I miss out on so much.

"Not being able to enjoy the little things in life like wearing a summer dress and feeling the sunlight on my skin is such a normal thing for most and something taken for granted by so many."

A few months ago, the idea of tattooing over the scar tissue was suggested to Ms de Vos. With support from her fiance Josh, her best friend Angie and Specifik Ink tattooist Emma Kerr, she took the plunge and started a journey to be able to walk free in the world, uncovered for the first time in 31 years.

"People say I'm beautiful and to embrace my scars and to not be afraid. But I don't feel beautiful. I just can't embrace them no matter how hard I try.

"Feeling like you're judged and often made to feel ugly and questioned by strangers is the most hideous thing anyone has to go through."

To help raise the $1500 needed to cover the scars Ms de Vos has started up a Givealittle page.

Because Ms de Vos cares for her special needs daughter Ella, she is unable to work and is relying on the fundraising to help her dream come true.

The mother has had part of her arm tattooed with flowers and likes what she sees.

"I actually feel proud of it, that in itself is like a dream come true. So close to being normal like everyone else, people seeing colour and beauty on my skin. Not the scarred mess that only reminded me of what I had lost."

• For more information on how to donate go to givealittle.co.nz/cause/myjourneytosunlight