[Laurel]

Trulan & Darlene,

Hair is a woman's crown of glory and we certainly do fuss on about it, don't we? Still, in the broad scheme of things it's only hair. I do not think you should feel that you must shave your head to be taking controll of your situation as so many of us have suggested. It is what worked for us, but I know many men and women who did not shave their heads during chemo. They were content to allow things to run their natural course and that was perfectly fine for them.

I do recall during my infusions I would see a young woman whose hair was noticeably thin, but she did not wear a wig or scarf. I happened to be placed next to her one infusion and was goofing around by pulling off my wig to reveal my ultra ball head. I saw her watching and laughing along with the nurses. We chatted quite often thereafter. I did notice that from that time on she wore a wig. I think seeing how good a wig can look as well as seeing how good a bald head can look on a woman encouraged her.

As for feeling as though you will disappoint all us well-meaning but sometimes insensitive Christians, I say do not wrestle with that! As hard as it is to accept, I believe the Lord uses chemo to heal us of cancer, and you are correct in focusing on the battle of cancer killing. The hair grows back. Cancer is a humbling experience, but one that everyone who has made the journey will tell you has changed them for the better. We didn't ask for cancer, but there is life in abundance after you get through to the other side.

I purchased a wig from a quality wig manufacturer. It cost around $250 which was covered by my insurance company. I chose a style that was similar to mine and the color was matched perfectly. No one new it was a wig. No one. I liked being without it at home and among friends and family, but was always glad to have it for public appearances!

Hang in there. This too share pass.