Ryan Mason, originally from Saint John New Brunswick, began his policing career with the Kentville Police Service in 2007.
After 16 years of policing, Mason was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and ultimately ended up retiring.
“It can be a very dark, lonely road trying to live your life while navigating the waters of PTSD.” Stated Ryan.
While dealing with his own struggles, he kept himself going, using art as his outlet. Bringing his own flare, Ryan began crafting leather items.
Mason started making a lot of items by tattooing them on leather material with a tattoo machine. With all kinds of custom images, they can be made on a variety of leather items, bringing a special look to each piece.
There are many different pieces available, such as wallets, sketchbook covers, different types of first responder gear and the list goes on that can also be personalized.
In light of the struggles Mason has faced, he began a project to not only help him, but to help others who are also suffering from mental illnesses.
The Puzzle Piece Campaign was started, which includes a leather keychain made by Ryan.
You can purchase a keychain for $10 and also have it customized. The idea is that you can either keep the puzzle piece or give it to someone you know that may be suffering from some type of mental illness.
The idea is that you’re giving someone a puzzle piece like it’s a part of you. Even though they’re looking for a part of them they lost, you’re giving them a piece of you to help them find the part in them that’s missing.
All the money raised from the Puzzle Piece Campaign goes directly back to purchasing high quality sketch books, paints, journals, pens, pencils which are given away to anyone for absolutely free.
“By using these items, they can start utilizing and hopefully build up creative outlets, to help them in their own journey with mental health.” Mason stated after explaining why he chose to give away artistic items.
With increased scientific evidence, art and journaling has shown that it helps when dealing with mental illness. This campaign could ultimately help many with dealing with severe mental health issues and helping prevent a stigma where many end up committing suicide.
Journals and sketch books are also available to kids and any one of any age, giving people the opportunity to begin their own ways to help themselves navigate their own lives.
“The stigma of depression, anxiety, PTSD, often silence people. They haven’t made it this far because they’re dealing with the stigma. You are not alone, you can get help and there’s nothing wrong with it.” Stated Mason.
You can reach out to Ryan if you have any questions, looking to talk to someone or even have something customized.
Touch base with Ryan via Facebook at Tatted Leatherworx.
It was great to catch up, check out the shop and sit down and have a solid conversation, thanks Ryan.
Adrian J.
