Studio launches fundraiser for popular tattoo artist

A Frome tattoo studio is raising funds to support one of its artists after he was diagnosed with testicular cancer and is unable to work while undergoing treatment.

Black Moon Tattoos, on Cheap Street, will offer ‘flash tattoos’ on 2nd and 6th August, with artists tattooing designs created by their colleague and friend Thomas Keggan, known as TK.

The fundraiser will raise money for TK and his family while he undergoes treatment and is unable to work. The studio is also planning other fundraising events including a raffle and a gig at a local pub.

Studio owner Jo Black said, “TK has recently learnt that his testicular cancer has metastasized and he now needs aggressive chemo to treat it, lasting for at least the next nine weeks.

“This means he cannot tattoo and also cannot work his part-time job. He has a young family and at the studio we want to help raise some money to support him and them during this really awful time. One hundred per cent of the money will go towards his GoFundMe.”

Within 24 hours of the fundraiser being launched, it had raised more than £500.

Jo said, “TK is so loved by many friends and locals. He grew up in Frome and has been in several bands, including More Than Life, who had success in the hardcore scene for many years.”

Jo will also be offering to tattoo TK’s designs outside her usual schedule until he is able to return to work.

She said, “Whilst we know that TK will beat this vile disease into submission and be back to his best, eventually returning to the studio once he regains health and strength, in the meantime he and his family are going to need some support financially whilst everything is going on.”

To contribute to the fundraiser, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/teekstattoofund

For more information, visit Instagram @black.moon.tattoos.