Pokemon has been a great source of comfort to me throughout my life since I was a child. I ravenously consumed media from the franchise when I was young, from the television show to the video games and the toys. When I learned to draw, it translated to me creating fan media for it as well. The franchise has stayed to remind of a more innocent time in my life, while also being a flexible crucible I can practice my artistic skills in. 

The series has ingrained itself into my life more than most. Many of my longest friendships started in the Pokemon community. At one point, I even met a girl to whom I was eventually engaged through it. While of course it was not the center of our relationship by any means, it did serve as a sort of theme and remained present all throughout. That relationship did unfortunately end eventually, but it does set precedent for just how much Pokemon has affected me. 

Coincidentally, the Popplio Pokemon was released around the time that said romantic partnership ended. Within the game, I came to view my Popplio as a personal pet, and I bought Pippity to express that. My job requires me to travel seasonally which makes setting down roots difficult, but him I can always just have with me. Romantic partners come and go, the pandemic keeps me away from many of my friends much of the time, and the transient nature of working as a pilot keeps me on the move-- but I can always count on him to be there when I get home. That has stayed true through the pandemic.

– Kyle

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant