Ever since she was a child, funeral specialist Jeanne Bush has always held a passion for helping others. It is this passion that makes Bush believe she was born with thick red hair for a reason, and that reason is for it to be given away to those in need.
“I’ve been growing and cutting my hair since I was 28 years old,” Bush explains, “I feel in some way I’m helping by donating the hair that grows freely and continues to grow back quicker each time I cut it for a good cause.” Although Bush has been consistently donating her locks over the years, she is not searching for flattery. “If my hair helps one child smile again I’m good with that.”
With help from Wigs for Kids, Bush’s wish to make a child happy will come true. For over 30 years, the organization Wigs for Kids has provided Hair Replacement Systems for children who have lost their hair due to a variety of medical issues/complications including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and Alopecia. “The effects of hair loss go deeper than just a change in a child’s outward appearance,” The Wigs for Kids website states, “Hair loss can erode a child’s self-confidence and limit them from experiencing life the way children should.”
By providing free wigs to children, the organization hopes to help them see themselves in a positive light and, in response, for their treatment to be positively affected by their shift in attitude.
“Children shouldn’t have to worry about how they look, especially when they’re in the middle of a health crisis,” said Founder Jeffrey Paul, “We want to give these kids the opportunity to feel good about themselves again.”
Jeanne Bush is a fan of Wigs for Kids due to them providing the wigs free to the children in need and wants nothing more than for others to join the cause. “Do it because you can and because you care,” Bush encourages, “All colors of hair are accepted; yes grey hair too, and I promise you will feel fantastic each time that you give your beautiful hair away.”
Even after Bush donates her hair this summer, she plans to raise awareness for the cause by challenging everyone to become a hair warrior. “If you have long hair I’m definitely going to speak with you about your lovely hair, ask if you ever have donated hair before,” Bush explains, “If you haven’t, I’ll tell you it’s a way you can make a small difference in someone’s life.” If you plan to grow out your hair, Bush has a few tips for you. “The main thing is do not bleach and to let it grow,” Bush warns, “Trimming helps the hair stay healthy and grow quicker when you get 12 inches or more cut.” No matter what the hair looks like, Bush hopes that people realize it will not go to waste when given to someone in need. “Your hair matters,” Bush states, “So just grow it, cut it, and give it.”
To learn more about how you can contribute to the Wigs for Kids’ mission, and how to donate your hair, visit their website at www.wigsforkids.org.
