A Wig Called Wanda

I picked up my wig last Thursday and it couldn’t have come at a better time. Like I mentioned in my previous post, my hair started falling out on Tuesday morning. By Wednesday, I barely had to touch it and it would come out. On Thursday, I was shocked that it still looked like I had a full head of hair. Someone could look at my hair the wrong way & it would fall out. At this point, it’s pretty patchy and I expect to look like Mr. Clean by mid next week at the latest.

I decided that Thursday night would be the night to buzz my head. Matt would be my barber & we’d just get it over with. I couldn’t stand pulling out long strands of hair any longer.  Matt got home from work that night, we ate dinner & then opened a really nice bottle of wine. We would both need a big glass for this! As I walked into the bathroom he said, “Welcome to my barber shop!” Bless him for trying to lighten the mood.  I sat down, not facing the mirror and started to cry again. I was about to shave my head! I pulled it together and we got to work. After the initial tears, we kind of had fun with it. I got a glimpse as to what I’ll look like with that pixie cut & I think I might be able to pull it off! It took about 30 mins and I came away with a freshly buzzed head. I’m not going to lie, it’s kind of awesome. It feels so soft and fuzzy and getting ready is so much easier.

I wore my wig to work for the first time on Friday & I was self conscious about it all day. I was convinced that everyone who even glanced my way was staring at my hair. I was sure they all knew it was a wig. I had Carrie on wig duty – she had to let me know if it ever got crooked or if I needed to go adjust it. I knew she wouldn't let me walk around looking like a hot mess. You need friends like that, the ones who aren’t afraid to tell you when you have food in your teeth or when your wig is crooked!

Since Matt shaved it on Thursday, I haven’t regretted it one bit. I’m embracing this part of the process and making the best out of this situation. Honestly, it’s been kind of cool. Yes, it really sucked at first and the wig is kind of a pain in the ass but it’s also been a really empowering experience. I feel pretty badass.

I decided when I got the wig that she needed a name. After tossing around a few different ones, I settled on Wanda & I think it really fits her. Wanda is a fun gal and I think we’re going to be really good friends! My next treatment is on Wednesday & Molly, my sister in law, is coming into town to join me. This one should take less time than the last one and now that we know what to expect as far as side effects go, I can prepare in advance. Pretty soon I’ll be 1/3 of the way done. Woohoo!!

xo,

Ali