Clyde had really outdone himself this time, yanking my hair right from the top of my head.
Now, I'm genuinely worried that my colleagues will spot my quickly balding head and turn me into the latest office joke.
So, during lunch break, I made a solo trip to the wig shop behind the hospital. I remembered a little girl undergoing chemotherapy mentioning they had cute wigs.
I used to be terrified of wigs, thinking they were somewhat eerie.
But stepping into the wig shop, I was suddenly surrounded by hope. The place was bustling, filled with all sorts of wigs, and surprisingly busy.
The shop owner greeted me with warmth.
"Hey there, what type of wig are you after? Got something specific in mind? Just so you know, our wigs are the real deal—no cheap synthetics here! They'll last you a long time!"
Seeing her, about my age, with her shiny, long hair, I felt a pang of envy.
But then, to my surprise, she took off her wig, revealing a bald head underneath.
"Jealous? You can have it too. Our wigs are beautiful. You're so pretty; you'd look gorgeous even bald. Don't be afraid."
Her enthusiasm was infectious, and after much deliberation, I chose a short wig similar to my current hairstyle.
She mentioned that wigs are all the rage abroad.
"Every year, we make a good sum from exports. It's just not as popular locally yet.You know, a lot of young girls are rocking wigs these days, so there's no need to feel self-conscious about it at all!"
Seeing my concern, she cautiously asked, "Chemotherapy, right? I've been there too, don't worry."
I was shocked. She looked healthy, even a bit plump, not at all like someone who had undergone chemotherapy.
"I look chubby, right? You need to eat well. Diseases that wear you down can make you lose weight fast."
"But don't worry, a few months after chemotherapy, your hair will start to grow back. I've been through it. It took about two to three months for me."
I couldn't believe it. She had gone through the same ordeal?
She patted my shoulder, "Relapse, huh? But it's okay. I've been living well for five or six years now. Worth it."
"Believe in medicine, work hard, save up, and you'll be fine, right?"
Looking into her hopeful eyes, I choked up and nodded.
"I'm also a second-time survivor."
"Then we're really meant to meet. How about I give you a discount? And throw in a haircut?"
She noticed my thinning hair.
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