18/03/2025
A summary from my Her Story podcast interview this morning...
🎭 Embracing the Bald: My Journey from Hiding to Thriving 🌍
At 11 years old, I noticed my first bald patch. By the time I was in college, alopecia areata had taken most of my hair, and with it, my confidence. I spent years hiding under wigs and extensions, fearing judgment, battling shame, and struggling with mental health.
Then, at 28, I made a life-changing decision. I shaved my head and traveled solo to Bali—embracing my true self for the first time. That decision changed the course of my life. It led me to create Lady Alopecia, a platform that fosters community, self-acceptance, and awareness for those experiencing hair loss.
💡 Key Takeaways from My Journey:
✨ Beauty is not defined by hair – Long hair ≠ worth or identity.
✨ Acceptance is liberating – Once I let go of the fear, I found true freedom.
✨ Challenges can lead to purpose – My greatest insecurity became my biggest strength.
✨ Community matters – No one should have to navigate hair loss alone.
✨ Mindfulness & yoga are powerful tools – Healing isn't just physical; it's emotional too.
📢 Inspiring Quotes from My Journey:
💬 "Where I live now, the work that I do—all of it stems from deciding to shave my head."
💬 "I wanted to normalize alopecia, to contribute to the conversation around identity and beauty standards."
💬 "There is much more to you than your hair... and you are stronger than you know."
If you or someone you know is struggling with hair loss, know that you are seen, valued, and enough—just as you are. 💙
🔗 Let’s grow this conversation together! Share your thoughts or tag someone who needs to hear this.
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Thanks to the wonderful Getrude Matshe for letting me share!
