That’s what the prescription calls it, penned by my oncologist. I laughed when I read it, and so has everyone else with whom I have shared this term. While my insurance indeed does not pay for it, we decided to get one anyway. It costs about the same amount of money as getting my hair cut and colored three times. In case you have not guessed by now, a cranial prosthesis is not a head replacement, it’s a wig. I’ve been told the hair falls out between treatment 2 and 3 in about 50-70% of women on chemo, so we decided it was time.
If you don’t lose the hair in the first three months, 100% of all women lose it in the second three months. So, it’s inevitable. It’s best to pick out a cranial prosthesis before you lose your hair, so you have it as you lose it. This gives you a sense of power and control over your own look, rather than letting the chemo have the power. Some women choose to just wear scarves instead, and most of the time that’s probably what I’ll be doing as well. But it’s nice to know I’ll have a beautiful hairdo for special occasions, church or work events.
Elizabeth went with us to pick one out, and we had some fun trying on different styles. Why not? Laugher is good medicine. I have to say it was fun going to a beauty shop and spending just 5 minutes getting a great look! I’ve always wondered what I would look like as a redhead, and now I know. Interestingly enough, Tim realized he’s glad he’s not married to one. 🙂
Entering Gayla’s Salon felt like a cross between stepping onto the set of an old horror film and an upscale wax museum. I drooled over the grand piano, and felt soothed by the fake fire place, but it did feel a little, er, “creepy” was the term used by Tim and Elizabeth, as we walked among all the heads staring into space. Being certified cosmetologists as well as prosthetic specialists, Gayla’s have the advantage of including everything with the purchase of a wig…hair removal, personalized fitting, and styling. Essential care tools come in an additional kit.
Would you like to play a game? Here are some pictures of the different styles I tried on, then we will take a poll on which one you like the best. Just leave a post with your number selection, and if you care to comment why, you are welcome to do that as well. 🙂
#1 Short Auburn
#1 – Tim calls this “short auburn.”
#2 – Short Brunette
And this is the Short Brunette (#2)
#3 Blonde (my natural color)
#4 Long red hair – who is that woman?
#5 – Strawberry Blonde
Which is your favorite?
1-18-13 – I’m adding a #6. I forgot we tried this one on just for fun. 🙂
#6 Short Blonde – wild and woolly