You can get your long hair cut and donate it for cancer patient wigs at any time of the year. But doing it during Breast Cancer Awareness month ups the ante a bit.
Jeff Greenfield, a stylist at the Anthony Robert Salon in Verona, recently took on the challenge for client Heather Reinwald. At the salon, the hair is donated to Pantene Beautiful Lengths, a partnership between the hair care company and the American Cancer Society that has produced 24,000 free real-hair wigs for the non-profit’s wig banks. (Any other services like coloring and styling are at the salon’s regular rates.)
It was a big step for Reinwald, who had last had her hair cut short in 1995. She had been thinking about what she could do for Breast Cancer Awareness month, and says she was struck by the number of stories she was hearing about women cutting their hair. “I felt like the universe was telling me something,” she says. “Everything was leading me back to cutting it short.”
Greenfield, a Verona native who is also a regular cast member on Jerseylicious, did the cut and then took it a cut above with a new style for his client. “I thank Heather for supporting a cause so near and deal to my heart,” says Greenfield, “and God bless all of those who are dealing or helping those dealing with cancer.”
Reinwald was holding her breath when the scissors came out, but she came away happy. “Jeff does an excellent job,” she says. “He wouldn’t let me leave without being happy. I have gotten so many complements that I am just thrilled.”
At least eight inches of hair must for cut for a wig donation and it takes six ponytails to make a wig. “Women who are thinking of doing this should give it a try,” says Reinwald. “It makes a huge difference and it can be a life-changing experience for somebody.”
