Sally Grippo is typically a vibrant, outgoing and positive person. But when she lost her hair while being treated for breast cancer, she lost some of her sparkle.

The program provides a no-cost wig consultation and a high-quality wig to patients diagnosed with cancer. It is available to all patients regardless of where they are receiving medical care and is supported by generous donations from the community. Consultations are done by  staff members and trained volunteers in a private wig boutique at both Living Well Cancer Resources locations in Geneva and Warrenville, Illinois, or can be done virtually. The boutiques are stocked with wigs in varying styles, sizes, lengths and colors to accommodate patients of all ages, sizes, ethnicities and gender identities.

"Hair loss is a visual reality for patients going through treatment," says Angela McCrum, director of Living Well Cancer Resources, who has previously served as director of Northwestern Medicine Proton Center and a radiographer at Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital. "Patients who come in for appointments will often say they just want to be able to go to the grocery store or a special event like a family wedding without any stares. Those stares are a constant reminder of their diagnosis. Others need a wig for work because they haven't shared their news with anyone — and may or may not be doing so. A child may need a wig to avoid drawing attention in school."

McCrum points out that patients with cancer can go through a grieving process as they realize the loss of the way things were, including their hair. Those with hair loss can feel like a piece of their identity is missing. For Sally, hair loss was also a loss of a social comfort blanket.

"I'm outgoing, but there are times when I'm shy. I did use my hair to kind of cover me. It was a bit of a safety net," says Sally. "And then when it was all gone, I felt like I was just out in the open."

Finding the Perfect Wig

McCrum notes that cancer treatment can impact both physical and emotional health.

"From the physical side, patients might not have enough energy to go out for dinner, run to the store or catch up with friends for coffee. This can impact self-esteem and wanting to do these activities, which affects overall quality of life," she explains. "Our goal with the wig program is image recovery and restoration of some normalcy for patients. We want them to feel confident to continue to engage in the things that bring them joy."

After feeling isolated and exposed at the same time, Sally made an appointment at the Living Well Cancer Resources wig boutique in Geneva. At the appointment, she was able to get a tour of the facility and learn more about the programs and services available. By the end of the consultation, Sally had a new wig similar to her former style, along with wig care instructions in a take-home tote.

"The Living Well Cancer Resources staff members worked with me and were so kind. I found an absolutely perfect wig! It is natural-looking with gorgeous highlights. I even wear it with hair accessories and hats," says Sally. "I now go out on days when I'm feeling OK from treatment, and I socialize with everyone. So, one day, I didn't even want to step outside to get the mail and a day later — literally — I felt like a superstar."