WIG SALON IS BREATH OF 'FRESH HAIR'

Patients undergoing chemotherapy at University Hospital now have their own wig salon based in the Cancer Centre. While the cancer treatment undoubtedly saves lives, the side effects can have a dramatic effect on the patient's appearance. Fresh Hair Wig and Beauty will be there for patients suffering the side effects of cancer treatment and other conditions.

Fiona Ford, of Woore, recovered from Breast Cancer but watching her appearance radically change, as she lost all her hair, even her eyelashes and eyebrows, was very powerful. It inspired Fiona to raise money for the Trust. Fiona's fundraising, alongside that of Nick Cuthbertson and others, have helped to make this a reality.

Fiona said: "I wore headscarves to cover my baldness but I found wearing a wig made me feel normal. However, this was hot and uncomfortable at times but I did prefer wearing a wig as no-one could tell I was ill. I also learned how to draw my eyebrows in and how to use make-up to emphasise my eyes, I tried false eyelashes but gave up as they were so fiddly.

"Creating the wig salon was vital, getting better is not just about the treatment, keeping your self-esteem is so important to the recovery process. Women who lose their hair through illness can go and choose a wig, have it professionally styled and leave feeling so much better about their appearance."

Helen Francis, a breast cancer specialist nurse, said: "Women lose their hair two or three weeks into chemotherapy. Their treatment is traumatic enough without adding problems with the wigs. It was my dream to have a dedicated wig room in the hospital with a selection of styles available rather than having to re-order and wait weeks for the right one."

Steve Rushton, UHNS Charity manager, said: "The initial fundraising came from Nick Cuthbertson, who lost his wife Mandy in 2007. Nick raised a fantastic amount of money, and other fundraisers then started to contribute. But it was not until Fiona became involved did the project really take off. The work of Helen Francis, together with Fiona’s time and energy, means the people of North Staffordshire have a service that really touches people's hearts and helps our staff connect with the patients."

Fresh Hair Wig and Beauty is open 10am - 4pm Monday, Wednesday & Friday. To contact the salon, Tel. 01782 672727.