Tanya (Ash's mom)

Female

Wesley Chapel, FL

United States

Profile Information:

Relationship Status:
Single
About Me:
I am the parent of a 21yr old girl with Alopecia Areata. My daughter's name is Ashton, she is a junior in college. My daughter has struggled with alopecia areata since she was about 4, but we have always managed to hide her spots with her hairstyle until late 2008 early 2009. She was a competitive cheerleader so we needed a hair solution that was extremely secure. Ashton uses the virtuesse hair system and has for many years and although it's not perfect it has allowed her to live as close to normal as possible.
Do you have alopecia?
Parent or guardian of child with alopecia
Are you age 18 or older?
Yes - I am 18 or older

Comment Wall:

  • Jill

    Hi. I saw your blog about the teasing. I'm not a parent but I lost all my hair the summer going into 7th grade. I think teasing has to do with ignorance. Kids are more understanding and less likely to tease when they know what's going on. I found it a blessing to learn early on who my real friends are. I'm not sure if this make sense to you or not. Feel free to message me anytime.

    Jill

    Feb 6, 2009

  • Cherylnz

    Hi Tanya and Ash,
    Welcome to Alopecia World

    Feb 6, 2009

  • LeslieAnn Butler

    Hello and welcome, Tanya!
    I know how hard it can be. Especially when you're a teen. I have had alopecia for about 30 years. After I became the spokesperson for the National Alopecia Areata Foundation, a lot of women were needing my help and support, so I wrote a book called, "If Your Hair Falls Out, Keep Dancing!" It's a really informative and fun book and it might help Ashton feel better. You can find out more on my page -- and let me know if there's anything else I can do!
    LeslieAnn

    Feb 8, 2009

  • Cheryl, Co-founder

    Hi Tanya, I wanted to take this opportunity to welcome you to Alopecia World. I have been living with Alopecia Areata since 1991 and know full well the struggle it can be. I look forward to getting to know you. Cheryl, Co-founder

    Feb 9, 2009

  • LeslieAnn Butler

    Oh, that makes me so happy that she is doing better!
    Big hugs to both of you.
    LeslieAnn

    Feb 11, 2009

  • Sheila Burton

    Hi Tanya
    I'm so sorry that you and Ashton are having such a horrible time. I fully understand what you mean about feeling helpless, it made me feel very guilty that I couldn't make her alopecia better. Hayley's now 21 and coping very well with alopecia , I hope that gives you some encouragement although I know it doesn't solve your current problems. Its so upsetting that these bullies think its ok to behave in the way that they do, by targetting vulnerable people. Rose Marie has some good advice and I hope that things improve for you both very soon. I'm glad that Ashton has the support of her cheer friends and of course yourself because understanding people can make all the difference even if they can't make difficulties disappear. Take care
    Sheila

    Mar 3, 2009

  • Jamie

    Hi Tanya, I was wondering how the system is working for your daughter? I had looked this system myself, but was afraid of if. How often does she get it changed, does it look natural? I need to do something soon.

    Apr 6, 2009

  • Lauren

    Thanks so much Tanya. How long do you think the Virtuesse looks good before you need to put another one on. Does it really stay on well? Thanks again--I really appreciate your advice!! Lauren

    Apr 13, 2009

  • Tanya (Ash's mom)

    Long time since I've visited alopecia world, but wanted to update everyone on my daughter. She is doing amazing. We have been doing the virtuesse hair system since March and it has changed her life. Every 6 weeks she gets new hair and is now more confident in herself that she is having fun with them changing colors and lengths. She is able to do all the normal activities kids do over summer. I'll post more pics soon.

    Jul 23, 2009

  • Andrew

    Red Ribbon

    Jun 18, 2010