Eliza A, NSW
**A Journey of Love: Donating My Hair**
In 2013, my life took an unexpected turn. A routine check-up led to a whirlwind of emotions, and for the first time, I found myself standing at the precipice of uncertainty regarding my health. No cancer but my journey was terrifying. As I navigated through those tumultuous waters, I realised how fragile life can be and how quickly everything can change. It was during that period of introspection that I decided to make a difference for others who were grappling with their own battles against cancer.
The first time I stepped into the salon, my heart raced with a mix of excitement and apprehension. I had spent years growing my hair, and as the stylist snipped away, I felt a weight lift off my shoulders. With every inch of hair that fell to the floor, I felt a sense of purpose grow within me. I was donating my hair to help create wigs for those who had lost theirs—a tangible way to support individuals enduring their own cancer journeys. It was a small act, but it was filled with love and empathy.
Year after year, I continued this ritual, dedicating my donations to friends and family members who were battling cancer. Each strand of hair represented a prayer, a thought, and a wish for their strength and recovery. However, this year felt different. This year was heavy. I found myself mourning the loss of two family members who had bravely fought their own battles. In addition, seven others in my circle are navigating their own difficult journeys with cancer.
With this weight on my heart, I felt compelled to share my story more openly. I wanted to inspire others to recognise the importance of health—not just for themselves but for the people around them. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life, often neglecting our own well-being until it’s too late. I wanted my experience to serve as a reminder to prioritise our health and to be sensitive to those battling illnesses.
This year, I decided to make my donation louder, to amplify my message, and to encourage others to join me in this mission. I look forward to sharing the stories of my loved ones who had fought cancer and emphasising the impact of compassion and community support. I urged everyone to consider donating their hair or, if they could, to contribute funds to organisations that support cancer patients financially.
Let’s fight together against cancer and extend the support to those who need it.
