She Wanted a Tattoo to Honor Her Late Brother. It Landed Her in the ICU

A woman’s tribute to her late brother took a horrific turn when a tattoo she got in his memory landed her in the intensive care unit with a dangerous infection. Quiniece Washburn, a 36-year-old mother of two, decided to get a tattoo of her brother’s face on her left calf after he tragically passed away from an overdose. Describing their close relationship growing up, Washburn wanted a permanent reminder of her brother’s presence in her life.

Trusting an online source, Washburn paid $350 for the portrait tattoo. However, her experience turned painful as she felt a burning sensation during the inking process. After completion, the tattoo began leaking more than expected, with blisters forming and fluid oozing out. Washburn recounted the distressing ordeal, stating, “When it got worse, I was having to drag my leg to walk, and I was limping. It was a horrible time for me.”

Despite seeking medical attention and undergoing multiple hospital visits for intravenous antibiotics, Washburn’s condition worsened, leading to her admission to the ICU. Doctors diagnosed her with cellulitis, a severe skin infection caused by bacteria entering through a cut or crack in the skin. Washburn described the infection as “green infected stuff oozing out of me,” highlighting the seriousness of her condition.

While undergoing aggressive antibiotic treatment in the hospital, Washburn reflected on the potential causes of the infection. She raised concerns about the cleanliness of the tattoo equipment, speculating that improper hygiene practices may have led to her ordeal. Despite the artist refunding her money and offering compensation, Washburn expressed disappointment as the infection has left her tattoo scarred and unrecognisable.

Sharing her harrowing experience as a cautionary tale, Washburn emphasised the importance of ensuring the cleanliness of tattoo parlours and the hygiene practices of artists. The traumatic incident not only left her physically scarred but also emotionally distressed, as her tribute to her late brother suffered irreparable damage. Washburn’s warning serves as a reminder to others considering getting tattoos to prioritise safety and hygiene above all else.

In conclusion, Quiniece Washburn’s endeavour to honour her late brother through a tattoo led to an unexpected and perilous journey. As she continues to recover from the traumatic experience, Washburn’s story sheds light on the importance of vigilance and awareness when it comes to body art. The lasting impact of a seemingly routine decision serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks involved in the tattooing process.