As most people in my life know, I have alopecia areata, which is basically a complicated way of saying my hair doesnt grow. Alopecia is an autoimmune disease, where my immune system attacks my hair follicles, which cause me to be bald. I was diagnosed at a very early age and therefore, have never had a normal full head of hair, as most people do. Its something that has often been a struggle to live with, but has also made me stronger as a person, so I dont complain too much.  However, the impact it has had on my life is much bigger than most realize. People always comment on how great it is that I dont have to shave, spend money on hair products, etc. However what they fail to realize, which I do not blame them for because many just dont think about it and I certainly wouldnt if i were in their shoes, is that there are many daily things that it effects. At a young age, children my age often thought I was a boy, and would sometimes argue with me when I corrected them. I get stared at often when I go anywhere, im constantly questioned if I am sick, and sometimes treated differently because people think im sick, which as you could probably imagine has had a big impact on my self-esteem. I couldnt do my hair for prom like all my friends, I cant go get a new hair cut just to change my look because I feel like it, I cant wear a veil on my wedding day, I cant wear make up on my face because there is no where to blend it and who wants their head covered in makeup? certainly not me haha. This isnt meant to whine about my problems, but for others to understand that it isnt always "just hair" as i've often been told and it has more of an impact that you may think, besides simply not having to shave and saving money (however, i will admit thats a nice perk). I have learned to love myself the way I am and I am fine with my appearance, however, sometimes it would be nice to look and feel "normal."

Recently I have decided to try out a wig. I have tried them in the past but they were always super uncomfortable and you could tell they were fake. I have found a place in morgantown that specializes in wigs and other hair pieces and had a consultation to discuss fit, price, etc. and I had the opportunity to try them on to make sure I would like it. I have decided that I do want to move forward and get a wig. I will not be totally changing myself and appearance and wearing it every single day, but it would be something I would wear often. However, for a good one, the cost will run about $2800, ballpark figure, before tax. It will be custom fitted, human, european hair. I have decided to set up this page to try to raise the money, instead of going into more debt. If you cannot donate, I do understand because I know money is tight on everyone in todays world, so please do not feel obligated. That being said, any little bit helps and I would immensly appreciate it! The full cost does include a custom fitting, and mold so it would fit me specifically, the hair itself, and for it to be hand tied into a wig, and also 5 shampoos, a stand, and product that comes with the cost that I was quoted from the consultant. If I should happen to raise extra money, not that I expect to, but IF that should be the case, it would go toward any taxes because i dont have the estimate of that amount, or to a seperate savings account that I would not touch-only to be used if/when the wig needed to be repaired or replaced in a few years, which is normal. 

Again, any and all help is appreciated!

Much love, 
Emily