CANCER patients who lose their hair through treatment will receive support from a new service.

HeadStrong clinics are to open at Wrexham Maelor Hospital and Glan Clwyd Hospital in Bodelwyddan.

Volunteers will provide practical advice and emotional support for anyone experiencing hair loss as a result of cancer treatment and will develop new links with hospitals and chemotherapy practitioners.

Mair Dempster-Jones, of Bryn Coch in Mold, was diagnosed with breast cancer at the end of 2008 and is delighted with the new service. Mair said: “It may seem like a minor thing to lose your hair but it is a big emotional shock.

“Chemotherapy wouldn’t make me cry but losing your hair does.

“It’s pretty devastating to see your hair start to weaken and fall out.”

She added: “I just hope the same services will be available throughout North
Wales.”

The services are available thanks to a £10,000 grant from Wales Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA) to Breast Cancer Care Cymru.

Bev Hampson, volunteer manager at Breast Cancer Care Cymru said: “This service is available for anyone, wherever their cancer, who has lost or is concerned about losing their hair due to their cancer treatment.

“At a private appointment our trained volunteers will talk through how to look after your scalp before, during and after treatment.

“The volunteer will also show individuals how to make the most of alternatives to wigs using scarves, hats and other headwear.

“The funding has also enabled us to provide in-depth training for our HeadStrong volunteers.

“We couldn’t provide our HeadStrong services without these volunteers, who enable us to provide this personal, one to one, practical support in a sustainable and cost-effective way.”

- LAST year Wrexham woman Emilienne Rebel, 33, launched a business selling beanie hats after losing her hair through cancer treatment.

The mum said she was fed up with trying to find suitable head-wear to keep her warm when she lost her hair.

She came up with Bold Beanies: funky cotton hats in all patterns and colours.
For details go to www.boldbeanies.co.uk