A Sutton woman who lost all the hair on her body has set up a support network to help those suffering with the often devastating psychological effects of alopecia.

It is not unknown for Claire Boylan and friend Jenny Austin, who together launched Alopecia Support Group, to receive calls from fellow sufferers about suicide.

They set up the group after becoming alarmed at the lack of support in Birmingham for those with the condition.

"It's about confidence," said Claire, 27, of Wylde Green.

"I've had alopecia on and off for ten years and to start with, a lack of confidence was an issue.

"Now my alopecia is the worst it's ever been – I've got no hair anywhere – but I'm very confident now in who I am and it's just a condition, not an illness.

"That's why I started a support group – because I'm confident, perhaps I can help others."

This week's photoshoot took place in the unlikely setting of Wylde Green hair salon, Legends, part of The Lanes shopping centre, Birmingham Road.

But it is where Claire has her wig trimmed; part of a makeup routine that includes pencilling in her eyebrows and gluing on eyelashes. "The staff," she said, "are really supportive.

"They offer a one-to-one, personal service."

She added: "My eyelashes will last for six months – you can't even tell."

Claire has claimed her life back from a condition that she will not allow to beat her. But it is not always easy.

"I've been on lots of dates this year, but when they find out that I'm bald, they don't hang around very long."

Claire can be contacted on 0121 384 3087. Phone Jenny on 07776095885.

The group meets in Sutton Coldfield, Kingstanding and Birmingham city centre.

Source: Sutton Coldfield Observer

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