FILLMORE : Dozens Sign Up for Tattoo Removals

Dozens of youths have signed up for tattoo removals offered free of charge today by a Beverly Hills dermatologist.

Dr. Adrianna Scheibner said she would have to return to Ventura County to remove the markings of all the local youths who want them erased.

Meanwhile, the health educator at Fillmore High School said she has been bombarded by young people wanting to get their tattoos removed after a news report on Scheibner’s offer.

“It’s overwhelming,” said Janice Shieferle, who had been coordinating the sign-ups. “I’ve probably had 20 calls (Thursday) morning and people keep running in saying, ‘You have another call.’ ”

Scheibner founded the Brave Hearts Foundation four years ago after removing tattoos from hundreds of children for more than 10 years.

Dr. James Howatt, a Fillmore family practitioner, donated the use of his office for the tattoo removal.

The number of young people wanting tattoos removed means that many will have to wait until Scheibner returns.

“The numbers are increasing,” said Shannon Simpson, director of the Brave Hearts Foundation.

“But we’ll be back here about every three months, which is about the right amount of time between treatments,” said Simpson, who added that many tattoos require more than one treatment. “We’re going to do our best to get all of them done.”

Young people interested in getting tattoos removed by Scheibner should register with the Brave Hearts Foundation by calling (310) 550-0677.