This is the interpretation of the Rod of Asclepius (most commonly seen as part of the Star of Life on the side of ambulances) created by my tattoo artist (Joel Baca of Art Work Rebels in Portland, OR) and myself.  It is on my right calf.  This symbol is utilized internationally as the symbol for medicine and healing.  Besides the Greek mythology and astrological associations behind this symbol, which fascinate me, my reason for getting it was to commemorate my decision to change everything in my life to pursue my childhood dream of becoming a doctor, and to remind me to never stop working towards my goals.  I am about to finish up my training as an EMT, which is the first major step down my new path, and with each passing day the meaning behind this tattoo becomes stronger and stronger for me.  Additionally, the placement was chosen (after some struggle) due to the that modern medicine truly changed my life the day I shattered my right patella, severing the tendon, and doing a great deal of damage to my right arm as well.  Thanks to the care I received from the moment the paramedics arrived on scene to the moment I walked out of my last physical therapy appointment 6 months later, I have zero limitations due to the injuries sustained.  I am beyond impressed with Joel’s design work, and will be returning to him for future tattoos.

This is the interpretation of the Rod of Asclepius (most commonly seen as part of the Star of Life on the side of ambulances) created by my tattoo artist (Joel Baca of Art Work Rebels in Portland, OR) and myself.  It is on my right calf.  This symbol is utilized internationally as the symbol for medicine and healing.  Besides the Greek mythology and astrological associations behind this symbol, which fascinate me, my reason for getting it was to commemorate my decision to change everything in my life to pursue my childhood dream of becoming a doctor, and to remind me to never stop working towards my goals.  I am about to finish up my training as an EMT, which is the first major step down my new path, and with each passing day the meaning behind this tattoo becomes stronger and stronger for me.  Additionally, the placement was chosen (after some struggle) due to the that modern medicine truly changed my life the day I shattered my right patella, severing the tendon, and doing a great deal of damage to my right arm as well.  Thanks to the care I received from the moment the paramedics arrived on scene to the moment I walked out of my last physical therapy appointment 6 months later, I have zero limitations due to the injuries sustained.  I am beyond impressed with Joel’s design work, and will be returning to him for future tattoos.