At the age of sixteen, Alina was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. She never wanted to become “the girl with cancer.” She was the girl with big dreams and goals, determined to pursue her future of going to college in New York City as a Graphic Designer in the Fashion industry. The time previously reserved for tackling homework was taken up by regular chemotherapy treatments. Alina has always shown amazing resilience, even after losing her dad to Lung Cancer at a young age. She remained positive, never really showing how upset she got, almost as if protecting me from her worries. That’s just how strong she is. The changes that come with treatment though, like losing your hair, can be devastating for anyone, especially for a teenage girl. As a mother, it broke my heart, knowing what was happening to her physically on the inside, now painful emotionally on the outside.
On the journey to regain her health and her self-esteem, I would have given anything to make her smile again but the option of a new real hair wig was out of reach because insurance does not cover it. As a single parent, and the newly consistent worry involving financial issues related to her illness, we were already struggling. Almost giving up, we discovered this wonderful organization called OPERATIONBEYOUTIFUL, who generously offered to help. With special thanks to Andi Palmar, who thoughtfully coordinated a very special day just for Alina. Going above and beyond with the help of the girls at the charity’s salon: NUHART HAIR, provided her with professional, excellent care, making it a truly positive experience, through an otherwise difficult time. They helped select a wig that looked as similar to her natural hair as possible. Not only ordered the wig in the exact right color but also styled it so it looked like her own. Even graciously making adjustments when needed.
As if that wasn’t enough, Alina was treated to a shopping spree at her favorite store, Sephora and got to pick out an outfit at JCPenney’s. Makeup and clothes, that made her smile! And even while really anxious about losing her hair, it wasn’t such a big deal in the end because she had her wig and it made such a difference. Thanks to Andi and OPERATIONBEYOUTIFUL…
Looking good can truly help you feel good!!
Much Love,
Alina and Sandi Broome