A litany of concerns things run through your mind when you hear the dreaded words: “You have cancer.” Among them, your physical appearance is one that’s hard to face, and your self-perspective can take a real hit.
Kelley learned she had cancer last year and her treatment has been intense. In a meeting with her husband, she learned that she had a connection to a five-year cancer survivor and West Cancer Foundation volunteer. Both the survivor and her husband praised the services at the Foundation and implored Kelley to take a look at what they had to offer.
Hair loss was inevitable. While Kelley accepted it, the harsh reality of facing the public was tough to swallow. Fortunately, her husband had noted the Foundation’s Sweet Wig Beauty Boutique, which provides free wigs and head coverings, and made an appointment online right away.
Kelley had finished a particularly rough round of chemo before her visit to West Cancer Foundation. When she arrived, Programs Coordinator Davine’s warm welcome proved this was a far more personalized experience than they’d expected. She was pleasantly surprised to find a beautifully laid out room filled with wigs of all styles and colors, punctuated by a variety of scarves. The salon-like setup allowed her to feel comfortable, both physically and emotionally. With plenty of time, Kelley tried several wigs and chose three to take home.
“I know I keep using the word ‘uplifting,’ but it’s exactly the right word to describe my visit,” said Kelley. “I was very impressed with Davine’s tips for care and styling.”
While she’s still getting used to wearing a wig, she feels that she doesn’t necessarily need them all the time. There’s another factor at play—because these wigs are such a great accent, she finds confidence in wearing one on difficult days.
“Having these wigs, and going through these transitions—it’s much bigger than personal appearance,” she said. “It is a vulnerable and raw time, and it’s a challenge to learn to appreciate different aspects of the experience as a whole.” Kelley mentioned that she’s also found her new wigs to be a great outlet and reinvention of herself as she emerges from this difficult situation.
Now, Kelley is the one telling everyone about West Cancer Foundation’s programs. As she progresses through treatment, she plans to join the volunteers at the Foundation to pay it forward for others who, like her, can benefit from the generosity of the West Cancer Foundation and those who support it.
