In this incredible story about the influence of social media, Mark Cropp, a young man from New Zealand, found himself at a turning point after completing a two-year and three-month sentence for a failed drug deal.
While he was in prison, Mark, eager for a new beginning after his release, made a choice that would significantly change his life.
One night in his cell, heavily drunk from homemade alcohol made from fermented apples, bread, and sugar, Mark and his brother made a decision that would alter his life forever…
The face tattoo
In a drunken state, they chose to tattoo Mark’s face with his nickname using a makeshift ink created from toothpaste and melted plastic utensils. The resulting large black tattoo, boldly displaying “Devast8” across his jaw and lower face, would later become a mark of regret.
After getting out of prison, Mark confronted the tough reality of being unemployed. Even though he was keen to reintegrate into society and support his partner and young daughter, he quickly realized that his prominent face tattoo was making it nearly impossible.
Despite having previous work experience, potential employers were immediately deterred by the visible ink, which meant Mark couldn’t find a job.
Mark shared with the Daily Mail Australia the story behind the tattoo, saying: “You know there was a long time there where I would devastate everything I touched. I would end up devastating everyone I met or got close to.”
He added: “They would be disappointed with something I had done or said – I was always hearing ‘that’s devastating.’ Once it was started, I thought, I can’t go back on it now. I wish I had stopped while the outline was there to be quite honest,” he said.
“Before I realized it, I had this on my face… It was as swollen as a pumpkin,” he mentioned.
Eager to find a way to get rid of the tattoo, Mark looked for options but faced financial issues and a shortage of professionals willing to help. Laser removal, which was the best choice, needed multiple sessions and was quite expensive. So, Mark decided to reach out on social media for assistance.
He posted a selfie on Facebook showcasing his unique tattoo, asking for a job and a fresh start. His emotional request quickly gained popularity on the site, catching the eye of the team at Sacred Tattoo, a tattoo shop in Auckland.
New beginnings
Moved by Mark’s situation and seeing a chance to make a difference, Sacred Tattoo chose to perform an incredible act of kindness. The tattoo shop, recognized for its dedication to the community, offered to assist Mark by providing free laser removal sessions to eliminate the “Devast8” tattoo from his face.
This kind act from Sacred Tattoo not only highlighted the powerful influence of social media but also showed the importance of compassion.
Mark also succeeded in getting a job at PR Contracting, a scaffolding company, earning $22 an hour.
What are your thoughts on this story? Do you believe everyone deserves a second chance in life? Share your opinions in the comments!
