Hair is not just an aesthetic element; it’s a core aspect of identity, especially for someone immersed in the beauty industry. As a hairdresser for over two decades, losing my hair due to treatment for Australia’s deadliest female cancer, ovarian cancer, felt like losing a vital piece of myself.
Reflecting on this experience, I’ve come to understand the profound significance of hair and self-expression in my life and profession. Hair represents beauty, but it also embodies connection, creativity and our identity within this world.
The first signs of change
At just 33 years old, I had leg pain that I thought was sciatica, a common issue for hairdressers. But deep down, I knew something wasn’t right.
Despite everything appearing normal, I always sensed something was off with my body. When my symptoms were dismissed by doctors, frustration and uncertainty began to set in. Encouraged by my partner, Daniel, I sought a second opinion. That GP ordered scans, and was told it was cancer. He mentioned it was ovarian cancer, though he seemed unsure due to my age. The rollercoaster ride began.
The rollercoaster of diagnosis
Navigating appointments, my emotions fluctuated wildly. My gynaecological oncologist couldn’t confirm the diagnosis until a biopsy was done. This uncertainty brought both hope and despair; one moment I was bracing for the worst, and the next, I dared to hope it might be nothing.
The biopsy confirmed low-grade serous ovarian cancer. Hearing that was terrifying as a rare ovarian cancer that can be hard to treat and disproportionately affects younger women. I learned I would need a radical hysterectomy because the tumours were suffocating both ovaries. This was particularly heartbreaking, as Daniel and I had been considering starting a family. After consulting with three fertility clinics, I discovered that nobody could save my eggs or provide viable alternatives due to the associated risks. I needed to know I had explored every option before undergoing my life-changing surgery.
The situation became even more complex when one tumour invaded my bowel, necessitating its partial removal. I ended up with a stoma bag, introducing another layer of challenges I had never anticipated.
I was grieving the loss of my body and the ability to bear a child, as well as the loss of my eggs. My body went into clinical menopause instantly, and I had to adjust to using a stoma bag. I took about five weeks off for recovery before starting chemotherapy. I am now on maintenance medication, which I will likely need for the next ten years to reduce the chance of the cancer recurring.
Navigating hair loss and embracing self-love
When I started losing my hair during chemotherapy, the emotional impact was profound. The moment my hair began to fall out, I was struck with the thought of not being able to continue my work as a hairdresser without my hair. This was a significant challenge to my identity in an industry centred around beauty. The fear of being seen as a ‘cancer patient’ rather than a ‘hairdresser’ consumed me.
Initially, I panicked and purchased a cheap wig that felt more like a disguise than a true solution. Ultimately, I sought a more authentic option — a human hair wig that I coloured to match my natural hair. Wearing it restored my connection to my identity and reminded me of the joy I find in my craft.
Being in the industry and wanting to make women feel like the best version of themselves is a huge part of the job. My cancer diagnosis has opened up another path for me beyond hairdressing, revealing that there are many women out there who also need to feel this way about themselves and should have the most incredible hair to give them the confidence and self-love they deserve when going through a challenging and traumatic time.
My colleague and I (who also had her own hair loss journey) have come together and launched ‘CRAFTED CROWNS.’ We both have our emotional pain and experiences, and we are able to use our skills and passion to create beautiful wigs and hairpieces for all women, giving them back their self-love and confidence. Because we all deserve to wear a crown, even when life sometimes wants to take it from us. I find this is also helping me heal by allowing me to do what I am so passionate about and good at, while also using it to help others.
Connection through challenge
Throughout my cancer experience, I leaned on a support network, including family, friends, colleagues and even some of my clients. My partner though has been remarkable, demonstrating incredible patience and understanding. I am so lucky to have him.!
Ovarian Cancer Australia’s Teal Support Program and my nurse, Fiona, were invaluable during my treatment. It was comforting to know that Fiona was just a phone call away, ready to answer my questions, even the simplest ones. I never felt silly asking her anything, and that reassurance was incredibly important to me.
Sharing my experience allowed me to connect with others facing similar battles, revealing the power of vulnerability in building relationships and community support. I realised I wasn’t alone in my fears or struggles, and that realisation has been incredibly healing.
3 tips for dealing with hair loss (from a hairdresser and cancer survivor)
Trust your instincts: Always listen to your body. My journey underscores the importance of advocating for your health when something feels amiss. Many people often dismiss their gut instincts; don’t wait for someone else to validate your feelings. Your body knows you best.
Find your authentic look: Don’t settle for a quick fix. I learned the value of finding a wig that genuinely reflected my style, helping me regain confidence and authenticity in my profession. This journey isn’t just about looking good; it’s about feeling like yourself again. Walking down the street and not being looked at any differently. Take the time to explore options and choose what resonates with your identity.
Express your emotions: It’s perfectly okay to feel scared or sad. Allowing myself to feel and express my emotions during tough times has been crucial to my healing process. I celebrate small victories, like getting out of bed or preparing a nice meal, as reminders that I’m making progress. Celebrating the little wins is vital for maintaining hope and perspective during this challenging journey.
Join the movement: Workout 4 Women
This November, join me in the Workout 4 Women challenge to raise awareness for ovarian cancer and support those impacted by this disease. By moving 4km each day throughout the month, you can contribute to a collective effort to raise $280,000 for women facing the life-changing news of an ovarian cancer diagnosis.
Your participation means more than just exercise; it’s about building a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for making a difference. Every dollar raised will help Ovarian Cancer Australia provide personalised support and advocacy efforts to improve outcomes for all those affected by ovarian cancer.
Will you help us make a change? Sign up today, create a team and spread the word.
