Tyson, There are a lot of things I'd like to do too but can't. Why? Because there are pretty bad consequences if I do. It's a no-brainer for me when it comes to things like that. Again, why? Because I value my life.

Do you value your life?

How do you work problems? Do you talk them over? Write them down? This is an important aspect of being a physician.

The skin is the largest organ in the body. If it gets infected, the consequences of that are enormous, especially on the back near the spine (CNS) and lungs. If you get a tattoo and it gets infected, which is highly likely given your history of infections, it can easily spread. Lung infections are very difficult to deal with and get rid of while immunosuppressed. Sepsis can kill you very quickly. A CNS infection can cause permanent damage. Bacteremia/blood poisoning is also a huge concern.

What is your motivation for having a tattoo? Do you value it over having the best health you can? Over life?

This is no longer about how old you are or that you're a "guy." This is about valuing your life and whether or not you make choices to ensure your life is as good as possible. It's again like you're playing chicken. Why? Only you know the answer to that.

I am sorry that you are young and are dealing with a bad disease. If you're angry about that, then get angry. But don't put your life in jeopardy simply because you like a design. Why don't you get it put up on a wall instead?

You know what I'd like? I'd like my dog back.

Annie