Alopecia: A View From Behind The Mask
Alopecia - Emerging From Behind the Mask
Alopecia-Emerging From Behind the Mask
“Today is Another Ordinary Day in a not so Ordinary Life”
Just the other day it hit me during spin class that as of my 52nd birthday last May it has been a solid 40 years since my first experience with alopecia. It is an anniversary of sorts.
As my mind continued to wonder in that hour of intense cycling, the tears flowed behind the sweat beads. I realized immediately that I was having moment. The good news is that from the outside, sweat resembles tears so it was hidden that I had a breakdown. At that very second I decided that I've done nothing more than lived behind a mask for 40 long years sharing only half of who I am.
Turning over a new Leaf
As I enter into 2015, with the help of the village that has respected the mask I have hidden behind for many years, I must slowly and ever so gently peep out and help someone. What better time to start then the first day of a brand new year.
I'm not boasting a new me; instead, presenting the other half of me you may not have had the pleasure of meeting.
My hope is to be an inspiration to someone or anyone who has suffered with hair loss. They must know that life goes on; that there can be relationships beyond alopecia; there is a community that empathizes with you; and that first and foremost, you are beautiful.
In preparation for this moment, I agreed to participate in a very special project due to be complete later this year and a photo shoot inspired by this undertaking. A sincere thank you to the amazing Kate Belle Photography and my dear friend and colleague Tania Dowdy. The photos above are samplings of a work in progress. (stay tuned for more details)
Wrapping Up 2014 in 7 Bold Statements
Alopecia - Living Behind the Mask
2014 had it's ups and downs. As I reflect on the year in review I’ve made revelations decisions; some plans; and I have so much to be grateful for.
Moving a notch further into my fifties, I’m suddenly reminded that retirement is only a footstep away and a bedroom upstairs may not be too senior citizen ready. As a result my husband and I have been thinking about what’s next with our living arrangements.
After 40 years of hiding, it's time to break out of my comfort zone and become an inspiration to another alopecian.
In 2014 we planned a cruise to take later this year. While it is not our first, it will be our first Jazz cruise and we're excited about it and look forward to rubbing elbows with some of our favorite musicians.
Around in September 2014 I woke up one morning and decided that the car I purchased 2 1/2 years prior was not the one I really wanted. As frugal as I am, I closed my eyes and told myself, "YOLO”. So we traded Black Ice and made room for a new and improved sportier Black Ice. I feel blessed and young again.
I'm so thankful that I work for a place affiliated with the hospital that made headlines and continues to make significant strides in conquering the Ebola virus. I feel honored.
I experienced lavender fields in France. I love my job! A week later I beached in Aruba with hubby where we celebrated our 31st anniversary. I am blessed.
My daughter may be on her way to total independence as she basks in her first job with benefits December. LAWD THANK YA!
The Best Is Yet to Come
2014 was not all good. There were some hiccups as with any year but without challenges you don't have the opportunity to rise above and push forward. It's a new day, another ordinary day in a not so ordinary life.
As I close the books on 2014, I'm looking forward to the challenges and experiences the new year holds.
I wish you a Happy New Year and I am hopeful that you will achieve all that you aspire to in 2015!
What are you thankful for?
Fran
Photo Credit: Bruger:Hansjorn - Happy New Year
