By PETER DOUGLAS
TALENTED tattoo artist Jessi-Lee Hall has inked her way to raising $1750 for the victims of the Nepal earthquake disaster.
The big-hearted philanthropist is the driving force behind InkAid which was held recently at the Dragon Tatoo Company studio in Mount Evelyn.
The initiative encouraged people to get inked with a small ‘flash’ tattoo for just $50, with the proceeds donated in full to those affected by the quake.
Ms Hall’s boss, Brett Daelsih, and former AFL umpire Peter Cameron were also involved and happy to show their support.
Mr Daelish said the studio received a fantastic response.
“There was a constant stream of people who supported the event on the night,” he said.
“Others had to be turned away over the next day due to the overwhelming support.”
Ms Hall developed a close affinity for the Nepalese after a random act of kindness during the Black Saturday Bushfires in 2009.
Although her Strath Creek house was spared, she and her family lost many of their belongings.
They also had to deal with the tragic loss of a neighbour.
A week after the fires, the family travelled to the Yea football ground, where many gathered who were affected by the tragedy.
Amid the devastation, a Tibetan Buddhist Monk approached Jessi and her family, reassuring them with comfort and a small envelop, each containing $100.
Ms Hall said the gesture left a lasting impression.
“I’ll never forget that act of kindness,” she said.
“They are the most caring, amazing people you would ever care to meet.
“They are warm and inspiring, and my heart goes out to them.”
Ms Hall said she vividly remembers one monk picking her up and cuddling her during this time of need.
She encouraged the community to support the Nepalese during their time of need.
