Cancer chemotherapy can block the activity of hair stem cells and cause hair loss. For many patients, this side effect of cancer treatment is a painful moment to overcome. With hair loss, women see themselves as dispossessed of part of their femininity. They can experience it as a handicap on a daily basis.
To help women overcome this milestone, a Canadian association of tattoo artists, Henna Heals (“henna heals”), draws henna tattoos on the bare skulls of patients. An original idea less connoted than wigs and scarves, too associated with disease. “Henna is a real healing boost,” says Frances Darwin, founder of Henna Heals. The photos visible on the association’s website http://www.hennaheals.ca/ shows the women wearing these works of art.
Women can easily change their head after chemo is over: the henna crown only lasts for two weeks. The cost of the tattoo is 100 dollars (approximately 72 euros). 10% of the profits are donated to an association that finances these tattoos for people who cannot afford them.
The touching initiatives of support for women with cancer multiply. Recently, South African women have touched the Web by shaving their hair as a sign of friendship for their friend with breast cancer.
Have you had chemotherapy and lost your hair? Share this experience with other women on our forum.
