I can't believe I am going to do this...

I said earlier that I wouldn't post pictures of me bald, but after looking through all the pictures of the kids and me and our shaving party...it just seems natural to show the one of me along with them. I am the finished product, so to speak. Jack wasn't quite sure if he should put the hair on his own head or hold it out to show Dad. Eventually, he scrapped the hair for a miniature snowman that was standing around.

Doing this blog is a growth process for me. I create this space filled with words from my experience so people won't fear cancer if it happens to them. Or if you all see someone that is bald when you are out that you might give them a smile or a kind look. Many of us don't realize that we probably view differences in an awkward fashion, or at least this is how I feel. Because of my cancer, I now try to say hi or talk to people who are bald or look different...just treat them like you and me.

I know, as a survivor, people treat me in all sorts of ways. Sometimes, people even disappear from my life. I am sure this is more out of people not knowing what to say or how to act. The truth is there is no gracious way to bridge the gap between someone going through an illness and the regular world. However, if you take a step toward them in any direction, I bet you will find they will welcome the company.

Please know that for the most part, people have been so gracious and kind to me. Unfortunately, cancer is affecting so many lives and there are many of you who have already had loved ones and family members who have gone through this fight. i just don't want anyone to be afraid if they have the cancer fight to take on. So, I am posting my bald head and as the hair grows back in...I will post that as well.

To describe the actual process, I didn't really lose all of my hair. There was some hair left, but it wasn't really filling up my scalp anymore. I went through a two-week shedding process where I would comb the hair out each morning and evening. When we shaved it, i was left with a prickly scalp. It hurts less than before because the weight is gone, but at times, it is a bit awkward.

Though I have a cute wig, since it is the summer and I am casual, I really prefer wearing do rags and hats. They are more comfortable, if you ask me. The scalp is funny without hair. I notice that my head seems a lot smaller in the do rag now and I keep having to retie it because there is little hair to keep it in place. An interesting part of this journey.

Depending on how our plan for treatment changes over the next couple of weeks, my hair could start to grow back immediately. It would take about a month for it to be visible on my scalp. I will keep you all posted regarding our treatment plan once I know more in a couple of weeks.

Blessings,
Lolo