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Raising Research and Improving Lives for Alopecia Sufferers
by April Maguire
Recently, a mother in England found a very special way of showing her young son how much she cares. After her son Ethan was diagnosed with alopecia, Melanie Doig organized a fundraising event to help sponsor research about this devastating condition.
What Is Alopecia?
A form of hair loss, alopecia areata is a condition in which the immune system attacks the body’s own hair follicles. While some people suffer only partial hair loss, many individuals with alopecia eventually lose all of the hair on their bodies. Currently, experts don’t know why alopecia occurs. However, the condition can have a profound effect on sufferers’ ego and self-esteem. Since hair is such an important aspect of one’s appearance, losing it can lead to feelings of unattractiveness and even depression.
Not limited to adults, alopecia is most commonly diagnosed in people under the age of 20. In fact, many children both in the US and abroad suffer from this condition. Signs of childhood alopecia include hair falling out in clumps and bald patches appearing on the head. While it’s important to seek the care of a pediatrician if you think your child is suffering from alopecia, there is currently no cure for this disease.
Fundraiser to Support Alopecia Research
Located in Emmer Green in England, Melanie Doig currently serves as the fundraising manager for Autoimmune Alopecia Research UK. She recently organized a dinner at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Caversham in honor of her son, Ethan Doig. Along with a three-course meal and drinks reception, the event included a raffle and silent auction to raise money for alopecia research. Overall, the fundraiser brought in an impressive £2,500 for the cause.
Diagnosed with alopecia when he was 4 years old, Ethan suffered a complete loss of hair within just a few months. According to Melanie, Ethan has had to endure many hardships since he developed the condition. Because alopecia is relatively uncommon, other children are unlikely to understand why one of their classmates is suffering from hair loss. As a result, they can be cruel to people with the condition. Further, little research exists regarding the causes of alopecia and potential treatments.
The Future of Alopecia Treatment
Along with her husband Richard, Melanie hopes to increase the amount of alopecia research taking place in the UK. The goal is to help Ethan and other children and adults living with this condition to enjoy happier lives.
If you or someone you know would like more information about hair loss and how to treat it, please feel free to schedule a consultation or contact one of our representatives today!
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