Chesterfield's permanent makeup artist aids TATA Foundation which funds areola tattooing

A permanent makeup artist has raised more than £2,300 for a charity which covers the cost of areola tattooing after bringing the community together for a wellness event.

Carly Smith, who is based in Chesterfield, hosted the TATA Wellness Collective at Hasland Village Hall which drew people living in the area, industry practitioners and businesses in support of a cause close to heart.

Attendees enjoyed Pilates, yoga and breathwork sessions in the event, alongside opportunities to learn more about restorative areola tattoooing and the work of The TATA Foundation.

Carly, who is a sponsored areola tattoo artist for the foundation, said: “I am absolutely overwhelmed by the response to the TATA Wellness Collective. Seeing everyone come together, enjoy the sessions, connect with one another and support such an important cause was incredibly special.

“I wanted to create an event that was about more than fundraising. I wanted people to have the opportunity to look after their own wellbeing while learning about the work of The TATA Foundation and the difference restorative areola tattooing can make to someone’s life.”

A raffle and refreshments formed part of the ticketed event which celebrated wellbeing, confidence and the power of giving back.

Carly said: “To have raised more than £2,300 is just incredible. I am so grateful to everyone who bought a ticket, donated a prize, gave their time or supported us in any way. It really showed what can be achieved when a community comes together for something meaningful.”

Areola tattooing uses specialist tattooing techniques to recreate the appearance of the areola and nipple, following mastectomy or reconstruction surgery after breast cancer. For many people, it can be an important final stage in their breast reconstruction journey helping them feel more comfortable and confident in their bodies.

However, the cost of private treatment can be a barrier for some patients. The TATA Foundation helps address this by raising funds to cover the cost of treatments for those who need financial support, enabling eligible individuals to access the service without having to pay themselves.

As a TATA Foundation sponsored artist, Carly is able to offer one fully funded areola tattoo appointment each month to eligible patients through the charity’s funding scheme.

She added: “I feel incredibly privileged to do this work. Behind every treatment is a person who has been through so much, and being able to help someone feel more like themselves again is something I will never take for granted.

“Raising awareness is just as important as raising money. I want women to know that restorative areola tattooing exists, that they have options after breast cancer surgery, and that financial circumstances should not necessarily prevent them from exploring this treatment.”

People can contact Carly directly for a confidential, no-obligation conversation about the procedure, suitability and available funding options.

To find out more about Carly’s work, visit https://carlysmithpmu.co.uk or search for Carly Smith PMU on social media.

For more information about the charity and its work, visit thetatafoundation.com.