Hugs U Wear - Human Hair Wigs for Kids

Summary

Childhood Leukemia Foundation's (CLF) Hugs U Wear program provides human hair wigs to restore self esteem to young cancer patients who have lost their own hair due to chemotherapy treatment.

What is the issue, problem, or challenge?

One of the biggest obstacles to overcome during cancer treatment is the loss of hair. Having to look different and worrying about fitting in should not be a part of the cancer battle. Childhood Leukemia Foundation (CLF) works with over 160 cancer hospitals to provide custom made, 100% human hair wigs (with detachable hats) called Hugs U Wear, to young cancer patients across the United States.

How will this project solve this problem?

Hugs U Wear are offered free to charge to pediatric oncology cancer patients throughout the U.S. The program is designed to increase self-esteem by providing an important tool for children to cope with the devastating effects of their disease.

Potential Long Term Impact

Studies have found physcial appearance to one of the most significant contributors to self-esteem in children. it sometimes leads to regressive behavior and social withdrawal. Hugs U Wear ease the transition to "normal" life and help children cope.

Project Message

"The patients have told me that they love their Hugs U Wear wigs/hats because they are a more comfortable option to wearing a regular wig."
- Cindy Zehnder, Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Additional Documentation

This project has provided additional documentation in a Microsoft Word file (projdoc.doc).

Resources