I've told you about Bridgette, my wig with a life of it's own. I was actually at a dinner party Sunday night where a buddy from work I don't see too often asked me if I had started losing my hair yet. I was delighted to tell him it was gone and that I was wearing a wig -- it's so obvious to me that I can't get over the fact that most people don't realize it's not my hair! Now, maybe people really don't pay as much attention as we'd like to think they do, but I'd prefer to think that I have a great wig. Since my wig was actually someone's hair once, it's important to shine a light on anyone who has ever donated his or her hair for cancer patients. If you have, I imagine you know you're doing a good thing but I'm here to tell you you're really doing an amazing thing.

It sounds crazy (and I'm somewhat embarrassed to admit it) but, when I was first diagnosed, I was more concerned about the possibility of losing my hair than just about anything. I've since learned that it's a normal reaction -- my doc told me he had a patient that even went as far as refusing chemo because of her imminent hair loss!? But I finally realized that, with me, it had to do with appearing weak and not wanting people to feel sorry for me. Initially, my preference would have been to hide away and deal with this on my own but, having just started a new job that I love and having to make public appearances, disappearing was not an option. Thank Goodness it wasn't because I'd be missing out on a lot!

I've always favored long hair and from the moment mine got buzzed I felt a freedom I've never felt. Having no hair feels great! For women, I'd liken it to losing your bra -- you usually don't do it out in public but around people you feel safe with or home alone, it's wonderful to go hairless! But it's not something I'm up for doing in front of most people. Thankfully I was led to the right place for me to get a "cranial prostheses" before I lost my hair and, honestly, the experience has been incredible. I'm able to get ready for work in much less time. No matter how I'm feeling in the morning preparing for my day, I can feel confident about the way I look because I've got something that helps me to look like myself, even when I feel like I'm losing myself.

To anyone who has cut off their long, beautiful hair and donated it, thank you!! You are empowering someone to face the world with confidence when they're at their most vulnerable. What a wonderful gift that is!