Esperance has also had parts of her ears removed to create her unique look. Her 89 body modifications smash the previous record, which was held by Maria José Cristerna for over 10 years, by 40 modifications. While some people store precious memories in photo albums or diaries, Esperance uses her tattoos to remember her experiences. She said, ‘I have had a pretty nomadic life, and not much room in my (army) pack, I felt I could take this with me wherever I go’. Each new tattoo has helped Esperance understand her life and she says they ‘turn dark times into light’, reminding her what she has lived through and helping her evolve both spiritually and mentally.