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Hello my beautiful friend,

        For a lot of women, myself included, one of the worst parts of going through chemo is losing our hair. We're already fighting this horrible disease, and we are faced with the reality that we won't even look like ourselves when our fight is over. So I had a decision to make. Let my hair fall out on its own or shave it off. For me, it wasn’t a difficult decision; I knew I didn’t want to lose my hair, but unfortunately that wasn’t an option for me anymore. It would just be a matter of time for me. 

         Something my husband said helped me decide to shave it as a precursor to chemo; he asked me how I wanted to remember my journey. I was going to lose my hair, but what I did not want was the memory of waking up to clumps of hair on my pillow, or to be showering and see my hair going down the drain. Since I decided to shave my head, I figured I would make an event out of it. Those that know me personally know I am a “Go Big” kind of girl. If I am going to do something, I am going to make it fun and memorable, and that is exactly what I did!

        On March 8, 2020, my sister hosted a tea party at my house. We had mini quiches, cupcakes, scones with clotted cream, pink lemonade, and London Fog tea for our guests. My mother put together adorable gift bags with eye shadow palettes and brushes for everyone to experiment with during the party. After everyone had a wonderful time doing makeovers came the moment I had been internally dreading.

         My very sweet friend and hairstylist did the honors. She will never know how incredibly grateful I was she was able to be there. I remember looking down as she took the clippers to my hair, and everyone else watching. When my gaze finally met everyone else’s, I saw so many somber looks, but they all did such an amazing job at keeping a positive attitude. I remember feeling like I wanted to break down in tears but seeing all my amazing friends gave me so much courage. Everyone was so supportive and kind; they just showered me with love and that made the experience so much easier.

        Now it’s been almost a full year and while I do remember the sad feelings I felt, it’s not the prominent memory I have of that day. I remember the love, and support I felt. I remember everyone smiling and enjoying each other’s company. When I think of that day I smile.

        At the time I am writing this, a gathering of this nature may not be possible because of the Covid-19 pandemic, but you can still make the event memorable. Have a virtual event, or maybe have something outdoors. Whatever you choose to do, make sure you are comfortable with your decision and then celebrate the strong person that made a difficult choice. I know the road ahead may seem endless, but you will come out the other side stronger than you could possibly imagine. Keep fighting friend, and know I am cheering you on!  

Much Love,

Laryssa










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