My Hair Hurts

My Hair Hurts

Several decades ago when I was in my early teens my tonsils would become inflamed and I would have a fever and be generally miserable for three or four days, recover, and then my tonsils would make themselves known again. During this time I remember that even my scalp was sensitive and tender and it did feel like my hair hurt.

Well my hair hurt earlier this week. It was getting long (for me) and when I brushed it, it hurt. Not only that but it was falling out, not in large clumps but several strands at a time and certainly more than normal. I decided to be proactive and get my hair cut very short and see about alternate head coverings for the upcoming chilly months. My surgeon told me that I would definitely lose my hair and I believed him so I was mentally ready.

Frieda, a volunteer at the Journey Room at the South Shore Regional Hospital, is a hairdresser who volunteers her time to help cancer patients cope with this particular aspect of their Chemo treatments. She quickly snipped my hair to about an inch in length. She recommended leaving it at that length and as it continued to fall out I could consider a head shaving if I wanted to. She then (very patiently) showed me a selection of wigs that I could borrow for the duration of my baldness. She also had turbans, scarves and toques in a variety of colours that were available on loan. She had a lot of patience and was very compassionate without being sappy and emotional, just the right balance for someone dealing with people who are acting and reacting in a very challenging situation.

I came home with two wigs that I never would have thought of wearing without her gentle encouragement. And I am happy with my selections and with my new looks for the upcoming months. Today I bought several cheap toques in colours that normally I wouldn't wear because they are too flashy or too goofy looking. I am not upset about losing my hair, there is more at stake here.

You know it felt good to take control and get my hair cut and to select my head coverings for the next few months. For someone who is a control freak the lose of control over my body and this whole process has been one of the hardest things for me to cope with so for me reasserting myself in this way feels good.

Over the next few days look for some pictures of me in my new locks. I'm interested in what you think of my new dos.

Thank you to everyone who has reached out via messages and emails. I appreciate the encouragement and support.