How Long After Treatment Began Did You Lose Your Hair?
Very shortly after the second round of chemotherapy
Did You Lose It Gradually or Very Quickly?
Gradually
What Was Your First Reaction When You Noticed the Loss?
Oooh, yick!
Were You Tempted to Shave Your Head? Did You Do It?
Yes! Yes! I made an appointment with my long-time hairdresser for a 'clean shave.'
Did You Choose to Wear a Head Covering or Not?
I wore bold and sassy scarves until after my last radiation treatment - I had a bit of stubble and I was now 'free,' so to speak - it felt great! Now I'm old and gray and in the way!!
How Did Losing Your Hair Affect Your Everyday Life?
It didn't really, except that I think I was a poster person because every day I woke up with a smile and I kept it going throughout the day - I had nothing but positive responses to it. I continued to work full-time and my world wasn't ready to end - in fact, my perspective had broadened so much that I felt like my life was beginning anew.
Advice
- Wake up with a smile (even if you have to work hard at it)
- Massage your scalp daily; give it a good 'shampoo'
- Learn how to wear scarves and hats as well as 'rugs'
- Check to see what kinds of defects you have on your head - scars from childhood injuries, moles - it's interesting and might evoke some enjoyable memories
- Enjoy the short-term freedom from bikini line waxing!
- Become self-deprecating - you owe yourself a good laugh
- Develop or expand your compassion for the human spirit
