Comment by ASRN on August 31, 2012 at 8:20pm

I did just the opposite recently and went wig- free to work! I was surprised by people's lack of reaction - like it was no big deal that yesterday I had hair and today I didn't :) I have learned over this very hot summer that you have to do whatever makes you feel beautiful and comfortable and confident. I am sure you looked great - sorry to be crass but if someone you really don't care about makes you feel bad then eff 'em ;-) You are probably cuter than him with or without hair!

Comment by Cindy on August 31, 2012 at 10:00pm

Some people can be so insensitive about this. His comment will make you more prepared the next time someone says something. I had the same reaction the first time someone said I like your hair, I said thanks and the lady next to me says it looks like a wig. There were a lot of people standing around me in the gift shop of the hospital I work at. I got out of there as fast as I could and went back to my unit and cried. After that, I decided to simply tell people who comment on my hair. It has helped me to feel empowered, it's a thing and I just have fun with it, and change my hair frequently. It will get better for you.

Comment by Tallgirl on September 1, 2012 at 1:11am

Sometimes, letting in the mouthy one can turn him or her into your most vocal DEFENDER against new people who comment, as long as he/she feels important when you ask for "help." I was afraid to tell my special ed students, and lo and behold, they not only handled it well, but also later pounced on a new kid who asked if I wore a wig at school. The veteran students said, "Leave her alone. She's cool." Whew! If your Jim gets handed some printed info about alopecia to read quietly, with a question added, "Jim...help me think of some ideas of how to answer back insensitive people at work," maybe he will work WITH you on this.

Comment by Deejay on September 3, 2012 at 2:43am

This was my biggest fear for years. After i shaved my head i immediately let all my friends i knew i was seeing soon that i had shaved my head. They all gave me the shock, awe and surprise act like they hadn't noticed i kept my head covered all these years. I told them i had alopecia. Explained what it was and told them to get used to it. I said all this with a big smile on my face to let them know i was ok with it. People will mirror what you show them. Of course it's not everyone's or ANYone's business what you're going through, you still have the option to tell it as it is. The way you told yourself. It'll take a huge weight off your shoulders. Ask yourself this: "How many times can you shock them?" People only fear and make assumptions about the unknown. You can only make the headlines ONCE. Since this is your place of work and you'll be there quite often, i say, claim your 15minutes of fame and keep it moving. They'll get over it. Goodluck.

Comment by Stella on September 4, 2012 at 4:23am

I was afraid to go to work also in my new wig for the first time. A lot of people politely commented on my hair, asking me if i have extensions, new haircut... But I could see them, they were wondering if i have a wig and why. Ive learned, that the best way -for me- was to tell straight ahead i have a wig. That way no one could hurt me by commenting or wondering and talking behind my back. I was really open about it, and mostly got the best reactions. Still there was a jerk or two, but I think they were more embarrassed about their own reaction than I was offended by their comment. I wish you well, and remember, bald is beautiful :)

Comment by Georgia Kay Jarman on September 4, 2012 at 10:40am

I am amazed at how strong everyone becomes. I am still having difficulty with the transition of a wig or shaving. I'm proud of all of you for sharing and trying to help others with your comments. God bless.

Comment by Lee on September 11, 2012 at 3:55pm

Some folks just don't know what to say in any situation, let alone one they know nothing about, and alot of times they cover up for their own insecurities, its kind of like it's easy to tell some one else about themselves but don't know how to deal with thier own, life is too pecious (sp) to be concern about how you are "looked" at and keep on going. In my own case I have slight dyslexia, and can't spell but it doesnt keep me from trying and trying to exspess myself. Like the old saying Don't worry be Happy!

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