A personal story inspires cancer campaign to turn treatment marks into symbols of hope

A powerful new initiative from non-profit Fuck Cancer unites more than 100 tattoo artists from across the United States in an original, important, and thoughtful campaign.

Fuck Cancer’s ‘The Mark of Life’ by Mischief @ No Fixed Address alongside Biscuit Filmworks and tattoo artists nationwide is directed by Dan DiFelice and Jackie Bao.

The campaign stems from a deeply personal story: associate creative director Vanessa de Beaumont began the project after hearing about her colleague’s aunt, who passed away with radiation marks that were permanent reminders of her cancer journey.

The creative team, including executive directors Bianca Guimaraes and Kevin Mulroy, set to work enlisting a nationwide network of artists. The resulting film documents the emotional process in which cancer survivors work with artists like Jake Karamol, Scott Campbell, and Herschel Carrasco to transform their radiation marks into ‘bespoke symbols of hope, resilience, and beauty’.

The documentary-style footage shows survivors regaining ownership of their bodies while donors can sponsor tattoos for those who need financial support. A neat little twist, we thought.

Heather Kun, CEO of Fuck Cancer, said: "This initiative allows people with radiation markers the chance to turn their daily reminder of cancer into something of beauty and hope... Like with our Personal Ink program, cancer doesn’t have to leave the last mark. We’re beyond grateful to the artists who have so generously donated their time and talent to make this possible."

Our take

‘The Mark of Life’ is a decidedly original addition to the genre of ‘purpose-driven creative activism’. The execution is elegant and heartfelt, and unlike many medical campaigns, which often focus on statistics or awareness, Fuck Cancer’s effort focuses on a rarely considered aspect of cancer care and a novel way to make a fraught journey more human.

Fuck Cancer has turned pain into art, and it succeeds because it keeps humanity and hope at the centre.

Survivors and donors can connect at TheMarkOfLife.com.