Cool Kid Michael Ramos channels pain for face paint

MONTEREY PARK, Calif. (KABC) -- Our ABC7 Cool Kid for Thursday, Oct. 23, is Michael Ramos, who channels difficult parts of his past in a way that could help other children deal with the present.

Ramos grew up surrounded by domestic violence and bullying, but he found a way to deal with the abuse.

"It's not chosen out for you. You should stand up for yourself. Talk to someone about how people are affecting you, because words can cause a lot of pain," Ramos said.

Ramos helps others who are dealing with those same issues in a colorful way. On Friday nights at the Farmer's Market in Monterey Park, he offers free face painting.

"People who need advice and to be talked to, we talk to them while we paint them," Ramos said.

Ramos finds that this is a great way to truly connect with kids.

"They know when they can see my expression that I care and that I'm actually listening to them," Ramos said.

Ramos is not afraid to share his personal stories as long as it can help.

"I feel like a good person, like I can help somebody, because I've been through it. I know how it feels," Ramos said.