Self-Image Services Restore Confidence
Shelby Meadows helps style a wig for Debra Calhoun at the Duke Cancer Center Raleigh Boutique
One of the toughest moments during Debra Calhoun’s treatment for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma came when her hair started falling out. “Even though they tell you to expect it, it’s still an emotional time,” she said. “Just waking up and seeing it on the pillow.”
One of her best moments? Working with self-image consultant Shelby Meadows at the Duke Cancer Center Raleigh Boutique to create a new look that made her feel so good. Calhoun still drops by to scout the latest looks before her appointments.
Providing Support, Education and Personal Care Items
The Duke Cancer Institute’s self-image services help people maintain their self-esteem and confidence during challenging times. It provides support, education, and personal care items such as wigs, turbans, scarves, hats, garments for easy port access, compression socks, and cushions that protect ports from seat belts.
Personalized consultations and wig fittings take place in a private room at its three locations in Duke cancer centers in Durham and Raleigh.
Meadows, a cancer survivor, feels passionate about offering her clients practical assistance and emotional support. “I know exactly what it feels like," she said. "Losing my hair was the hardest part of my cancer journey. It was the only time I cried during the whole thing.”
While chemotherapy is a standard of care for some cancers and can cause temporary hair loss, newer therapies are more targeted and don't.
Many people feel self-conscious about wearing wigs, said Meadows, her gorgeous copper blond hair setting off her skin tone, lipstick, and oversized cat-eye glasses. “But I let them know that for me, it’s a fashion thing. I change mine up a lot.”
Personalized Consultations
Meadows begins consultations by asking people what they want in hair color, length, and style. A photo taken before their hair loss helps. People can also look at the female or male mannequins in the boutique for inspiration.
Sometimes, people come in with one idea of how they want to look and leave with another. “I had a lady come in who always had dark hair in a certain style. I had the style but in a blonde color. She put it on and her eyes just popped. Her husband went crazy for it,” said Meadows.
People can bring a spouse or friend to help them choose but ultimately, what matters most is how clients feel about themselves in the new look.
Choosing the Right Look for You
Calhoun tried several styles. "The first two or three didn't quite look right. But Shelby kept coming up with new options.” Ultimately, Calhoun chose a short, shag-style wig with blonde highlights.
“Now I feel comfortable going to church. I like how I look again,” said Calhoun.
