I’m in the Royal Navy, I lost my hair whilst I was operationally deployed on a ship, well, when I returned home. I was sent to see a military trichologist, he spent less than 30 seconds poking through my fine hair with his pencil before stating ‘I’ve got hair, you haven’t, it’s how it is, deal with it’. As you can imagine, I was heartbroken, the military community can be harsh and I certainly didn’t escape from name-calling and spiteful comments.
I was dealing with it all the best I could, I made sure if I was ever in a classroom situation I’d always make sure I was seated at the back so no one could see my patchy hair. Luckily part of my uniform is a hat, so I could at least hide it part of the time.
I used to go to a hairdresser, and goodness knows why I paid him to cut my straggly hair but he always filled me with confidence and it was him who eventually suggested wigs.
I took the plunge. I found a shop and made an appointment, the lady took me to a little back room dressing room, whipped off her own hair and asked how she could help me. I was so shocked, I couldn’t believe she was wearing a wig and she helped me choose my first wig,
It was my first wig-wearing day and I was changing assignments at work. So, the first day in my new location with my new wig. and it went well. Wig-wearing can have its ups and downs, don’t get me wrong, but I love that I can be purple one day, and grey the next, short, long, curly, fringe, no fringe, tied up or down, I love them.
Sadly the shop eventually closed, but buying wigs online through Simply Wigs is so easy and convenient and I love the choice.
Since the moment I took the plunge, I’ve worn wigs in a war zone, fought fires on board war ships, and worn them on obstacle courses, whilst scuba diving, paddle boarding and horse riding. Wigs allow me to not care less about my hair loss and give me the confidence to be me.
Love to you all, Jessica x
Judith – your question about wig grips – Yes, if you wear a velvet type wig band, and practise wearing your wig with it, you will be confident that the wig is secure. Note that there is a “nap” on the band that grips the wig if you have it in the right direction !
Terrific. Thanks for the inspiration. You are amazing.
Wow Jesicca, I don’t ever normally idolise people but super well done you for having the strength of character & intelligence to do the job you do despite the difficulties of hair loss. You look great in the Carrie.
It’s nice having someone write realistically about the ups and downs of wig wearing.
xx
You are truly amazing both for your bravery and sharing your story. Thank you for sharing. Lovely to hear you happy with your wig and having a fulfilled life .
You are so positive Jessica and as I lost my hair some years ago, I can sympathise with how embarrassing a see-through scalp can be. All your confidence ebbs away, doesn’t it?
I totally agree with you about wig-wearing though. Like you, I have turned my alopecia into a “fashion positive” and enjoy different wigs the same as I enjoy different clothes. The choices are mind-blowing with the different lengths, styles and colours. Wigs have almost become a hobby for me. I’m sure you feel the same! All the best.
You look fab Jessica.
What an insensitive trichologist. I can think of plenty things to call him. Nasty person. Talk about making you feel worse than you already were.
I know just how much wearing a wig boosted my self confidence. Never a bad hair day again. Amazed at everything you’re able to do wearing a wig, well done.
Brave lady. Thanks for inspiration.
That trichologist needs a good talking to. How can he be so harsh and cold. However I’ve even been to a wig maker that made me feel a freak so understand completely how you must have felt.
You look lovely in your Carrie wig, even better
Than the model. So pleased it worked out for you and we should all thank you for doing a great job, x
Love your story and glad you are enjoying your life with wigs
I have been losing my hair for a long time, it was finally diagnosed as alopecia, I finally plucked up courage ring up Simply wigs. Everybody was so helpful , ordering was very simple and the wigs are gorgeous, after care is very good . I am so happy , wearing a beautiful wig has given me such confidence, all I can say is thank you Simply Wigs,
Hi jessica – what a girl! thank you for all you do representing our country. You are an inspiration, most of us only have to navigate every day life like going to the shops and facing neighbours – you meanwhile are in combat and literally fighting fires. You definitely epitomise the saying- when life sends you lemons, make lemonade. Take good care of yourself.xx
Your story is truly inspiring! As a secondary school teacher who works on supply ,I have been too worried that things might go wrong with a wig to wear one at work . In my line of work we are often expected to break up fights and assaults .Your description of the situations / scenarios in which you have worn your wigs encourages me to try harder! Have you any advice ? Do you use a wig grip?
Thanks again for your truly in spiting story !
Well done! Your attitude and confidence is so inspiring. Thank you for your service and for telling your personal story.
Well done ?. Your attitude and confidence is so inspiring. Thank you for your service and for telling your personal story.