In 2015, Gabriel, an energetic eight-year-old, received a life-altering diagnosis: anaplastic astrocytoma, a rare and aggressive brain tumor. The surgery to remove it saved his life, but left a long scar across the right side of his head. That scar, a symbol of survival, quickly became something Gabriel felt uneasy about. His mother, Bethany Shultz, shared that her son began to feel self-conscious, shrinking away when people looked a little too long.
A Father’s Unforgettable Gift
Josh Marshall, Gabriel’s devoted father, decided that his son would never carry that burden alone. To show unwavering solidarity, he shaved his own head and got a tattoo that perfectly mirrored Gabriel’s scar. “If people wanted to stare, they could stare at both of us,” Josh said. His message was simple but powerful: Gabriel’s scar was not something to hide, but something to stand beside with pride.
From Private Act to Public Movement
Josh’s touching gesture caught the attention of St. Baldrick’s Foundation, known for supporting children with cancer. He entered their #BestBaldDad competition on Father’s Day, sharing a tender photo of himself and Gabriel leaning in close, their matching scars proudly displayed. What started as a family moment quickly turned into a viral sensation, spreading a message of empathy and love across social media.
Video: A SCAR, A TATTOO, AND A FATHER’S LOVE
Recognition That Spoke to Many
On June 19, 2016, Josh was named the winner of the contest, receiving more than 5,000 votes. But his response was humble. He posted on Facebook that every father who stands by his child in hard times is a winner. His words reminded people everywhere that strength doesn’t come from titles or trophies—it comes from love and sacrifice.
Beyond the Spotlight
Since that Father’s Day, the story of Josh and Gabriel has continued to inspire families worldwide. Josh also started a GoFundMe page to help cover Gabriel’s medical bills, turning viral fame into a way to ease the practical burdens of treatment. The image of father and son, united by matching marks, has become a lasting symbol of courage and compassion.
Josh Marshall’s tattoo is more than ink on skin—it’s a pledge of solidarity and a public declaration of love. In choosing to share his son’s scar, he transformed it into a mark of pride and resilience. Their story proves that when love is etched in action, it can turn even life’s most painful moments into a powerful source of hope and unity.
