To shave or not to shave (head)

I knew that I would deffinatley lose my hair.  And I thought that I was all prepared.  As soon as I started to lose it I thought I would be able to shave it.  I was not able to.  I started to lose it on the 13 day after my first chemo.  It took about  3 weeks for me to loose the majority of it.  For alot of people it is a control thing.  It is something we can still control in a world of decisions that are made for us (treatments, doctors, appointments).  I never did shave my head until it started to grow back because I still had little wisps of hair left and as it grew in it would look very funny.  I know that I have not helped you make your decision, but just offered a different view on the subject.  I know that most people shave it as it starts to fall out.  I did not purchase a wig either as I just could not be bothered with it all.  I am 41 and have 3 children.  I am just to busy to bother with that stuff.  When I was losing  it I was devistated.  When it was gone it was'nt that big of a deal.  Good luck, and do what feels right for you, not everyone else.  They are not going through this.

Nell -- most of us agree:  During this tough time of treatment when you are on a doctor's schedule, shaving your head on YOUR timetable ahead of the actual hair falling out is an empowering thing....my husband shaved by head just after chemo #2.... and yes, it was sad, troubling, a little tramatic-- and then just freeing...it was summer of 2007...I had a wig and scarves/caps and 3 hats ready to go... but it came down to comfort: went bare headed at home, used cotton caps/scarves at work (since I didn't want the sympathy stares, either, while out and about), and hats to church....my hair was only about 1/2 inch long all over that first December when I finally went without any head gear, had the port removed from my chest and felt like I was moving ahead (figuratively and literally).... Just give yourself this summer to DO THE DRILL OF TREATMENT...  thankfully your hair will grow back...a small price to pay for the killing of the C dragon.... Dori
P.S.  asearcy79 -- I absolutely LOVED your funny comebacks to inquiring eyes and remarks...I so wish that I had been able to use your lines during my summer of chemo...  but will enjoy thinking that others will be able to use 'em now as they get thru their treatments.... bravo....  Dori

Well, you beautiful scarf fashion mavens,

Hi Nell,
I agree with you about the head shaving party, I'm not that brave. My hair fell out about 3 weeks after chemo. after my 2nd ac treatment. For me it was very sudden, I woke up with a bunch on my pillow. The day before my scalp felt like when you have worn a ponytail too tight all day. So at that point I did not hesitate, I had my boyfriend shave my head, with a mohawk first just for fun. The few days before it also became very dry and brittle, which made it easier to shave off. I just remind myself that the hairloss is worth being healthy and cancer free ! I actually am enjoying the way it feels, nice and cool for summer ! There are lots of cute scarves and I find them most comfy. Good Luck !