About Ben Oxley

Ben Oxley is from McDonough, Georgia, and has cerebral palsy. In his words:

The tattoo inspiration came from the song "Lydia" by Highly Suspect. Not only was it based off of the music video and the girl being underwater, it's also to depict that no matter what we go through in life we can overcome any obstacle we face. Life can still be beautiful if we just have the courage to break free from the chains that bind us, or the voices that try and silence us.

Yes, I have faced medical ableism due to my disability, not due to my tattoos though. I have had multiple medical professionals talk to my parents or a caregiver instead of to me when addressing issues and/or treatment.

I also have faced discrimination while pursuing my education, the teacher that was helping me told me the administration told her that I was taking to long to complete my coursework and they were no longer going to pay her for the extra tutoring hours needed. When I called the school to see what was going on they said I was no longer enrolled.

Do you feel empowered by your tattoos? Yes, I got my tattoos so that people would see beyond my disability and my chair wouldn't be the first thing they noticed. They empower me by allowing me to express myself, and offering an outlet to connect with any and every one.

Favorite Quote: "You can't judge a man by that chair." ~ Ben Oxley

You can follow Ben's journey on Instagram @Crazy_wheelz.making_ways opens a new website and on TikTok @Crazy_Wheelz1 opens a new website.