‘Britain’s most tattooed mum’ has revealed her heartbreak at not being able to fully participate in her children’s return to school.
Melissa Sloan has hit the headlines many times over the years, showcasing her 800+ tattoos and the unfortunate consequences that come with being excessively inked.
In the latest development, the mum-of-seven from Kidderminster has revealed that she can’t take her children shopping for school uniforms – because strangers just won’t leave her alone.
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The mum is “heartbroken” at the fact people can’t accept her unique appearance and how it’s affecting her family.
“I feel heartbroken that I can’t take my kids back to school supply shopping,” the 47-year-old told What’s The Jam.
“I avoid going to the shops most of the time – my partner does most of our food shops – but it’s particularly painful not to be able to partake in such a common parental activity.
“I would love to go out with my kids and help them choose supplies but strangers won’t leave me alone.
“When we’re in the children’s or back-to-school section in shops, other parents stare.
“Their children point at me – some of them laugh or start crying when they see me because they are scared.
“When I do go out, I have to cover my face in thick foundation.
“It’s hard because my kids need new uniforms and stationery just like any other children do.
“They don’t care that I’m inked so I don’t get why it’s such a big deal to other people, parents especially.”
Melissa, who has been nicknamed Crayola, in the past, will rely on her partner to help the children during school time or will shop for their items online instead.
Despite the constant negative attention and the impact her ink is having on her life, the mum still doesn’t regret having gone under the tattoo needle.
She added: “I shouldn’t have to hide my body from other people.
“My tattoos should be accepted and understood.
“It gets tiring having to avoid public places due to the way I look and people lacking understanding.
“While it can be a major inconvenience, I don’t regret my tattoos – I love the way I look.
“If other people can’t handle it, that’s their problem.”
It’s not just the back-to-school shop that causes issues for the mum.
She has been banned from several places over the years including her local pub and church, and avoids the beach or wearing a bikini at the risk of scaring kids.
