New “bald” friend of Barbie causes controversy

U.S. toymaker Mattel created a “bald” friend of Barbie doll named Ella and donated a limited quantity of the dolls to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF).

However, the bald doll has created some controversy in the alopecia community because Ella is packaged with a wig on.

Some feel that it is not a real representation of a person with alopecia and would have preferred that the doll was packaged bald with perhaps a wig included as a fashion accessory.

NAAF states it was not involved in the development or packaging of the Ella doll and that Mattel made the determination that Ella would be wearing her wig in the packaging.

What do you think of Mattel’s decision?

NAAF is making its supply of the Ella dolls available on a first-come first-served basis to children with alopecia ages 3-17. You can apply at www.naaf.org, as Ella is not available in stores.

Views: 5952

Comment by Margaret Brennan on February 19, 2013 at 7:03am

it was a comment box on their website. so no email address. just found went to their contact us area on the mattel website.

Comment by Vesselsong on February 19, 2013 at 11:33pm

I can see those suffering with Alopecia who don't wear wigs or any covering having a preference to have Ella packaged without a wig on. Having worn a wig for years to cover up bald spots, I don't have a problem with Ella sporting her wig in the package.

Keep looking - God is looking down!

Comment by Jessy on November 10, 2017 at 2:14pm
I'm Zambian (African). I started loosing hair for years ago. I'm even diabetic,,my life is so tough and complicated. At times I wish I were d**d. The only thing that gives me the will to live are my children. Nobody really understands...it's really so painful.People are ever staring if my head is not covered. I live in a rural area so even wigs are hard to come by....my career makes it even had. I love ❤ what I do just that we are conformed to particular norms...a bald headed teacher in rural communities..will be unheard-of...at times I feel like screaming...I'm comforted to see that they are others like me..just wish,,,only wish...
Comment by JeffreySF on November 11, 2017 at 11:29pm

You might want to attend a NAAF conference to help you cope with your alopecia. www.naaf.org

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