New Initiative Lets Women Create Wigs From Their Own Hair Before Chemotherapy
Translated & summarized from Makor Rishon by baba
Chaya Bronfman's My Original initiative allows women to create personalized wigs from their own hair before chemotherapy-induced hair loss, aiming to ease emotional distress. The three-hour process helps women maintain a sense of self during cancer treatment. Bronfman is raising awareness and seeking financial aid for the service, emphasizing the importance of knowing the option exists before hair loss occurs.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- My Original allows women to create wigs from their own hair before chemotherapy begins.
- The process takes about three hours and aims to help women maintain their appearance.
- Founder Chaya Bronfman highlights the emotional benefit of seeing oneself in the mirror.
- The initiative aims to raise awareness during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
- Bronfman is advocating for financial assistance for women seeking this option.
- The community 'Sisters on the Road' also offers support to women with cancer.
A new initiative called My Original, founded by Chaya Bronfman, offers women undergoing chemotherapy the option to create a wig from their own natural hair before hair loss begins. This process, which takes about three hours, allows women to maintain a familiar appearance during a challenging time, potentially easing the emotional impact of cancer treatment.
Bronfman, who owns Bronfman Wigs, developed the project after realizing many women discover this option too late, after their hair has already fallen out. She explained that the fear of losing one's appearance can be as profound as the fear of the disease itself. "There is one moment that I meet again and again with women who are about to start chemotherapy treatments," she said. "A moment when the fear of the disease meets another, personal and deep fear: the fear of looking in the mirror and not recognizing themselves."
The My Original project involves women bringing their natural hair to the salon, where it is cut and used to craft a personalized medical wig. Bronfman emphasized that while the wig doesn't treat the cancer or prevent hair loss, it can significantly aid in the personal and emotional coping process. "She doesn't need to explain to those around her why she looks different. She doesn't have to deal with looks or questions she is not ready to answer. And most importantly, she can look in the mirror and see herself," Bronfman explained.
Bronfman is also working to raise awareness about this option, particularly during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and is advocating for financial assistance for women seeking this solution, including raising the issue in the Knesset. She believes this information should be provided to women early in their treatment journey. Additionally, the community "Sisters on the Road" is celebrating its first anniversary, connecting women with cancer to survivors for support and shared experiences, highlighting that the journey extends beyond medical treatment.