Kiki's Haus
Just a couple of weeks after my 20th birthday, I was diagnosed with lymphoma— a cancer that affects white blood cells which play a critical role in the immune system. Admittedly, I was shocked, fearful and in disbelief. In September of 2023 I began to have pain in my right knee. After several months of doctor appointments and trips to physical therapy, the pain became unbearable. In May of 2024 a biopsy revealed there was a growing tumor above and below my knee cap. My doctor explained to my family and I, that the next 7 months of my life would consist of intense sessions of chemotherapy. As she explained how sick I’d be how weak I’d become and that I would lose my hair, all I could think about was the job I was working to save money for my first car, my plans to start cosmetology school, and summer nights spent with my friends. I felt disappointed, angry, and overwhelmed. For months I was actively working towards a better future for myself and suddenly I was forced to take the back seat. Although many things in my life have changed recently, I refuse to allow cancer to define who I am. I have well-founded faith that after this journey, I will come back stronger than I was before and I look forward to the feeling of “I beat cancer!” I am grateful for my amazing doctors, nurses, social workers, family, friends, Kendra for offering so much encouragement, love and resources. Kiki’s Haus has made the process of losing my hair much easier and less frightening. I felt confident in their hands as they assisted me in choosing a wig that matched my personality, boosting both my confidence and morale. Having such a strong and sensational support system has guided me through each and every up and down. An affirmation I love to remind myself of is “I can handle anything life throws my way.”
Thank you, Kendra, for your compassionate support in helping cancer patients and I navigate hair loss, regrowth and the healing process of it all. :)
