Hello and welcome, Jackie!
My hair took about years to go from patches to completely bald. It varies so much; some people don't ever lose all their hair.
Regarding wigs, this one I am wearing in the photo is a European virgin hair wig, custom made; I had it made in 2003 and it still is like new. It cost me less than $2,000. I t is exquisite and I have three of them now. Let me know if you want more info -- I get them through Brenda Kay Hair Specialities. She is here in Portland but works with women all over the country.
LeslieAnn

Hi Jackie :) I had small patches of hair loss for about 7 years and they were very manageable/easy to hide. However, my hair started coming out worse after about 7 years and at about 9 years it all came out. I tried cortison injections in my scalp as well as prendisone (oral steroids), but ultimately they did not work (and I completely recommend against taking oral steroids). The process is totally unpredictable and is different for everyone. The Freedom wig price varies depending on the length of the hair that you choose; mine was around $4,000. It seems like a lot (and it is), but it will last you 3-5 years and having worn a non-Freedom wig in the past, I can say that in my opinion, the Freedom wig is by far the best wig with the highest hair quality you will find. Karen Peterik is the Freedom wig dealer for the Midwest and she is fantastic! Her website is www.newlifehair.com. All in all, I know it is a very difficult process, but I promise you that you are not alone and that life can continue to be awesome even without hair! Feel free to ask any other questions :)