Today I debuted my naked head. No wig, no hat, no scarf. The longest hair I have so far is 3/4″, so from a distance I may look like a would-be starlet of GI Jane II. But I must say it was a liberating experience, and not too many people at the mall seemed bothered. And, thank goodness, no one called me “mister.”
I started to lose my hair the 17th day of chemotherapy, just as I had been told. My middle school principal had breast cancer a few years ago, and she was very clear that I should expect my hair to fall out on the 17th day. I cut and donated my locks when I found out I would have chemo, and in late July when the hair started falling out by the handful, I did what most females never have occasion to do - I shaved my head. As a show of solidarity, my Dad shaved his, too. Since then I have worn some sort of head covering in public, and most of the time at home. Though not having to shave any body hair was a dream come true, and I was grateful to have my wigs and hats, it got old. So when I started needing a razor in the shower again, one can only imagine my excitement.
I have learned a lot of patience in the past six months, but there’s no reason to wait any longer. My family, who is not at all biased, says I have a beautiful head. Of course I look different; in many ways, I am different. As soon as possible I will have a normal hairstyle again, and eventually, long beautiful hair. But for now, I will hold this fuzzy head high.
Blake, I gotta agree with your family. You’ve got a beautiful head! And for your fuzziness? Not many women could pull that off, but you manage to do it with sophistication and grace. I’ve enjoyed reading some of your entries. I’ll make an effort to return more often. With Love, Your Friend, Jeron
Blake, you are and always have been so beautiful on the inside AND on the outside that no matter what your hair, or lack of, looks like - you’ll always blow me away with your beauty. I miss seeing you and wish you lived closer!
You are so beautiful! I love you!
Mom
FTTT!!!! That’s the hottest fuzz I’ve ever seen. Seriously, you are so very beautiful, and I am so proud to be related to you.
Miss you and can’t wait to see you!
Dear Blake,
My name is Pravna, I was diagnosed with breast cancer last year at the age of 24. I’ve now finished my battle with chemo and was looking for info about hair growth after chemo when i came across your story. Thanks for putting your story available to other survivors. I must say losing my hair was quite distressing to me and it’s still taking a long time to grow, but looking at your your full head, your adorable baby girl and your gorgeous smile gives me hope and courage. Thanks for sharing your story
Pravna