Passing on the hairy favour

I grew up bald in my childhood and recently have spent the last 3 years in remission from alopecia universalis. A particularly challenging winter this year triggered a big immune flare up and confronted me with the challenge of letting go of my hair after reattaching during my remission. In a joyous celebration of shedding my hair, and with the gift of 11 people shaving theirs with me, I thought it would only be appropriate to pass the favour on and share the love I felt with someone else.

Alopecia universalis is a life-long hairless condition, with an unknown trajectory, and is often accompanied with other immune dysfunctions. Triggered by a mix of genetic and environmental factors, it can hit anyone at any stage of life. Developing alopecia at age 5 allowed me to grow up in a way where being bald was a normality and I understood the unkind words were merely from those who did not understand. However, for others who develop alopecia in their youth and young adulthood, it can be a difficult hurdle to overcome, as superficiality is often present in the world we live in.

Currently the government funding to support those with life-long hairless conditions is inadequate to purchase a wig for those who are active and young. This means that those who do not want to present that vulnerable part of themselves can be left with no option but an uncomfortable hairpiece. In an attempt to feel a sense of normality, these inadequate wigs can also lead to withdrawal from sporting and social events that may compromise the coverage of the wig.

Freedom Wigs, based in Dunedin, provides an opportunity for people to own a wig that is designed by an engineer. These wigs can be worn swimming or biking and even be tugged on without coming off thanks to the vacuum seal of a custom shaped silicone cap. However, the price of a shoulder length, locally made and ethically sourced wig is out of reach financially for many people. Having access to wigs for those who may not be able to deal with their current situation can enable them to engage in life whole heartedly until they feel ready to pursue other avenues.

Because of the challenges I have experienced having alopecia, during the ages of 15-22, I wanted to create a fundraiser where every dollar donated goes directly to buying a wig for someone in need. This would be to provide them with an opportunity of lightening the burden of living in a superficial world, with the goal of giving this opportunity to as many people as possible. Every dollar counts and buys the freedom for someone in need.