Mikayla Hyland, 27
Tattoo artist
The thing I love most about Avon Lake is its sense of community. There’s so much generosity, caring and love in Avon Lake.
I first moved here in third grade, and my family was not affluent. I can’t tell you how many times one of my friend’s parents paid for me to attend summer camp or do an activity we couldn’t afford.
In 2016, I lost both my mom and brother, something I didn’t expect to deal with as a 22-year-old. But people in this community — people I didn’t even know — helped me and made sure the funeral expenses were paid.
Now, I’m inspired to make an impact, too. I returned to Avon Lake as a wife, mother and business owner because I wanted to give back to the community that gave so much to me.
A lot of my clients are local breast cancer survivors, so I offer 3D nipple and areola tattoos. Last October, I organized a fundraiser and, even in the middle of a pandemic, this community came together to raise more than $3,000 for Susan G. Komen Northeast Ohio. It was amazing.
Living in Avon Lake has impacted me in ways that will stay with me for the rest of my life. This place has taught me that communities can make a difference.
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