Free Wigs for Cancer Patients
Many times, when cancer patients undergo chemotherapy treatment, their hair follicles become weakend and they lose all or most of their hair. Individuals may consider wearing wigs for this reason, however, a good quality wig can be expensive. Free wigs for cancer patients are available to individuals who cannot afford to purchase their own.
Where to Find Free Wigs for Cancer Patients
If you or someone you love can't afford a wig, you're in luck. Several reputable organizations provide free wigs to individuals in need.
American Cancer Society
Many local chapters of the American Cancer Society (ACS) provide free wigs through their wig banks. In order to determine if a chapter near you is donating wigs, visit the the ACS page for locating events and resources in your area.
The ACS has also teamed with the Entertainment Industry Foundation to distribute free wigs donated by the Pantene Pro-V Beautiful Lengths campaign. Relying on ponytail donations from women across the country, the campaign creates the wigs and distributes them to ACS wig banks. If you are interested in obtaining a free wig, contact ACS at 1-877-227-1596.
CancerCare
CancerCare, a national non-profit organization dedicated to providing completely free and professional support services to cancer patients and anyone affected by the disease, offers wigs at no charge. Take advantage of this service by contacting CancerCare.
Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization
Women with limited resources can take advantage of the Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization's wig and prosthesis bank. This service provides up to 500 wigs annually to patients, along with wig care and styling tips and a 24 hour phone hotline. These services are completely free thanks to the support of the organization's donors. If you're interested in receiving a free wig, contact Y-ME's 24 hour hotline at 1-800-221-2141 to speak with a peer counselor.
Duke Cancer Patient Support Program
The Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center offers a variety of support groups for patients at the hospital and within the local community. Among them is the Wig and Turban Program, which offers free wigs in various styles and colors, as well as turbans and hats (also provided at no charge to the patient).
The Duke program is just one example of hundreds of similar programs across the country. Another example of a similar program is the University of Michigan's Comprehensive Cancer Center Wig Bank Program.To find out if a facility near you offers a free hairpiece service, contact your local ACS chapter or community hospital for further information.
Wigs for Kids
Children under the age of 18 are eligible to receive a wig free of charge from Wigs for Kids. This non-profit organization relies on the donation of ponytails to create wigs for children. To request a free wig, simply fill out their wig application online.
Susan G. Komen for the Cure
Many local chapters of Susan G. Komen for the Cure offer wigs free of charge to patients. To find a Komen affiliate in your area, visit Susan G. Komen for the Cure's Affiliate locator.
Wig Alternatives
When the weather heats up, a wig can often make the head feel itchy and hot. On days like those, scarves, caps, bandanas and turbans serve as comfortable alternatives. These products are typically more affordable than a wig and are offered in a variety of fashionable styles.
Helping Cancer Patients Get Their Confidence Back
Cancer patients may already have budgets ravaged by the expenses of treating this insidious disease, and free wigs for cancer patients may not only help relieve the financial burden, but also the emotional one of coping with hair loss during this traumatic period. Hair loss can be very tramautizing for any cancer patient, and if they cannot afford a wig to cover their hair loss, they can lose self confidence. This is why these organizations, with the help of donations and volunteers, help provide wigs -- so individuals can regain confidence during this difficult time.
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