North Bay Woman

48 NORTH BAY WOMAN | F A L L 2 0 1 7 By Judith M. Wilson C ancer is a devastating diagnosis, and when hair loss comes as a side effect, it adds to the trauma. "It's the piece that just breaks a lot of women," says hairstylist Nina Husen. They don't have to go through it alone, how- ever, thanks to compassionate individuals who are ready to help. Husen, of Brewer Phillips Hair Design in San Rafael, and Nicole Hitchcock, of NH2 in Novato, founded Hairdressers with Heart when both were at NH2. They did so after fellow stylist Brandy Hitchcock, Nicole's sister, was diagnosed with leukemia just days after giving birth to a son. She had a strong upbeat spirit, but losing her hair was upsetting, and so Husen and Hitchcock used their skills to help her cope. After she passed away, they realized it was im- portant to help other women too. Later, Husen's mother was diagnosed with lung cancer. "She asked me to shave her head," she says. It was tough for both of them, but the experience gave her an additional perspective. "I understood more clearly how a loving professional could do what a family member can't," Husen explains. The result was a network of volunteer stylists — "hair heroes" — who offer free services. The process starts with a discussion that identifies goals realistically and includes salon visits for a year after treatment begins. Hair tends to be unattractive as it's growing back, and it might be different as well. A woman who had straight blonde hair, for example, might find that it comes in curly and dark, so it's reassuring to have help with styling and maintenance. Husen and Ann Brewer, of Brewer Phillips, teach the volunteers how to facilitate interactions and set boundaries while making a loving gesture, and recipients feel relief, joy and deep gratitude. "They can't even believe that someone will assist with the process and volunteer their time," Husen says. Although it began in Marin County, Hairdress- ers with Heart has grown into a nationwide movement, and Husen's personal efforts have made a difference. She's written about it on her blog, and "In May 2016, I got on my bike in San Francisco and rode to Virginia," she says, explaining that she wanted to help the organization grow and spread awareness across the country. Hairdressers with Heart is now active in Texas, Connecticut, the Chicago area, Washington, D.C., and New York. However, she adds, "We Helping Hands When Hair Falls Out Top: Nina Husen and Ann Brewer of Hairdressers with Heart in San Rafael. – Photo by Stuart Lirette; Below: Husen on her bike journey across America. – Photo provided by Nina Husen

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