By Annabelle Tukia
A Christchurch man who once had the word “skinhead” emblazoned across his forehead believes he has been given a second chance at his life.
And now Carl Drewett wants to "pay it forward".
Mr Drewett knows how lucky he is to have been given a second chance.
The once proud white supremacist had the word skinhead emblazoned across his forehead for seven years.
But now four laser tattoo removal therapies later, the 29-year-old says as the ink disappears, so does the life of crime he once knew.
“It makes me feel like I’m getting further in life and one step closer to not having it there and having a normal life.”
Mr Drewett's laser therapy treatments were paid for by donations from radio DJ Simon Barnett and with some help from Campbell and the general public.
The $3000 that was raised is more than the therapy will cost, so now Mr Drewett wants to hand it on.
“I would love to give the rest towards someone that may have [a tattoo] on their neck or face or hands, [and] they want to get a job but they can't because of it.”
Since getting the tattoo removed, Mr Drewett has found work unloading shipping containers. He says someone else will need the money more.
The man that gave Mr Drewett his second chance is not surprised by his decision.
“He just wants to help others who've been through where he's been. I think that’s such a lovely gesture, but again I think its an inspirational thing because its saying his life has changed as a consequence of getting this tattoo removed,” says Mr Barnett.
A tattoo that lightens daily along with the burden it brought.
3 News