Forum Discussion
wigs part 2
from last blog:
My bad wig day happened to coincide with the day of my 1st chemo treatment, so of course I was going to be a bit emotional. Back in the shop we decided to get the wig (just in case). When I got home, I put it in the very back of a cupbourd I rarely used. Looking back, I guess for me it was another bit of proof of my BC and treatment.
As it turned out, my head during chemo was far too sore to wear it anyway. I even had to place my head scarves and beanies on just right so as not to cause too much pain. And the days I went 'naked', I had to be careful of people wanting to pat my bald head!
Towards the end of my treatment, when I finally remembered to pack the wig with me for the trip to Adelaide (from KI), I went back to the 'friendly' wig shop. Despite the fact the wig had obviously never been worn, still had the tag attached to it, they would not take it back due to "health reasons". I pointed out that health reasons did't prevent me, or anyone else) from trying on hundreds of wigs before purchase. Alas! to no avail.
I have donated my very expensive, just -like -real -hair wig to our local support group to be available to go out to our community members looking for a wig. The use is free, just needs to come back washed & clean. (currently out on loan)
note: Always look for the positive.
17 Replies
hi Anabel
Your first chemo was today, I hope you are feeling okay - the first time is the scariest I think - it's hard to accept all these drugs going into your body. Just wondering how you went with wigs. My hair started falling out after 2 weeks, but I managed to keep it until 3 weeks - the head becomes very tender to touch when this starts happening. My hubby shaved my head at 3 weeks and I was glad that I had a wig. I wear it out in public, but at home I'm happy to wear scarves/hats. I have had a lot of comments that my hair doesn't look like a wig and so it gives me confidence when I go out that the average stranger won't know I'm having chemo etc. It is nice not to draw attention from everybody. I know that everyone feels differently but just thought I'd share my thoughts with you. Di
Hi Emma
Thank you for your message, you sound so upbeat and happy.
That's just how I want to be. I don't want people feeling sad around me and have found if I stay happy everyone else is as well. I've already noticed they forget I have BC and just get on with the conversation. I love that!!
The wig shopping went well and we had a few laughs and my sister took photo's that I was able to send to my sons who do not live close. I also had my hair cut shorter than it has ever been and to be honest I don't mind the look at all.
I'll let you know how things go this week, chemo number 1 on Tuesday and only 5 more to go. :-)
Keep smiling.......Anabel xx
Thanks Jo & Anabel,
You have calmed my fears. Thank you so much. Even 6yrs on, I'm finding out new things, and you have all helped me to express things I haven't really been able to before.
I love shopping on line.. no crowds, no pushing, no stares .. I agree.
Have a great girlie day out with your sister, Anabel! Have fun with it all, afterall, it's not every day we get to see what we look like a completely new hair-do!
I have only heard of 1 woman using the cold cap, Jo, and it didn't 'work for her. it felt a little better during those hot flushes, tho!
I remember getting a few 'power surges' and being able to just douse my head with water, shake, and wahlah! cool, dry and not looking like a drowned rat!
Again, thanx to all you lovely ladies, and good luck with everything. I'm happy to answer any questions now I know no offence will be taken.
Lotsa luv,
Emmaxo
I agree Emma...Information is power and I want to be fully informed of the pitfalls. I appreciate everyone taking the time to share. I have been clinging on to your Dads wise words of "at least you know its working" and declined to look at the much reported cold cap as I WANT to know its working by having my hair fall out. Thanks Jo xoxox
No you didn't scare me anymore than I am already feeling. However at the moment I am still smiling. I ordered some lovely scarves this morning and can't wait until they arrive. Shopping was always a fun pass time for me and boy am I glad we can do so much online, no need to go out at all if I don't feel like it.
I am going to look at some wigs with my sister on Saturday however I have already decided that if I don't like any them I won't be rushed either. If I have to wear scarves only, then so be it.
I like to read everyone's experiences as it helps with the unknown.
Thank you to everyone who sent messages. Anabel
No you didn't scare me anymore than I am already feeling. However at the moment I am still smiling. I ordered some lovely scarves this morning and can't wait until they arrive. Shopping was always a fun pass time for me and boy am I glad we can do so much online, no need to go out at all if I don't feel like it.
I am going to look at some wigs with my sister on Saturday however I have already decided that if I don't like any them I won't be rushed either. If I have to wear scarves only, then so be it.
I like to read everyone's experiences as it helps with the unknown.
Thank you to everyone who sent messages. Anabel
ps, I thought I'd be ok with my hair falling out. Thought I was prepared and all, but all I can say, is that when it began, despite the 'knowing' it would, it was still a shock. I think too, because it was just out of my control.
My Dad was the one that calmed me down. He said, "at least you know the chemo is working". That was one way of looking at it. He figured if the side-efffects were happening like the doctors said they might, then something must be working how it should be. I took this as my positive side to the fact that I was probably going to be as bald as a badger! and hey...Sinead O'conner was very sexy bald too.
ps, I thought I'd be ok with my hair falling out. Thought I was prepared and all, but all I can say, is that when it began, despite the 'knowing' it would, it was still a shock. I think too, because it was just out of my control.
My Dad was the one that calmed me down. He said, "at least you know the chemo is working". That was one way of looking at it. He figured if the side-efffects were happening like the doctors said they might, then something must be working how it should be. I took this as my positive side to the fact that I was probably going to be as bald as a badger! and hey...Sinead O'conner was very sexy bald too.
Oh boy! I didn't mean to frighten anyone! I posted my blog, wishing I had the experiences of some others I read about (as pointed out by Di and her link above) but also to give another take on the possible downsinde. This was only my story, and everyone's journey is always different, sometimes similar, but rarely exactly the same.
All I can say to those concerned about getting a wig is....if in doubt, leave it out. and when in need, you'll find one (couldn't rhyme that one!).
good luck hunting everyone and if you get the chance to go to a Look-Good-Feel-Better workshop, do it. It's great.
love always,
Emmaxo
