By Althea Gooden
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month a time dedicated to education, prevention, early detection, and support for those walking the journey of survivorship. For me, this month carries deep personal meaning. I am not only a Board-Certified Trichologist, certified in caring for hair and scalp disorders, but also a proud survivor of breast cancer for the last 12 years.
My Journey as a Survivor
Twelve years ago, I faced one of the greatest challenges of my life when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. The road was not easy-between treatments, side effects, and the emotional toll, there were days when hope felt distant. Yet, through faith, strength, and the support of loved ones, I found resilience. Surviving breast cancer gave me a new perspective on life, health, and healing. It made me passionate about helping others walk through their recovery journey with dignity and self-confidence.
Caring for Survivors: Hair and Scalp Health
One of the often-overlooked struggles of breast cancer and other critical illnesses is the effect of treatments on hair and scalp health. Chemotherapy, radiation, and medications can lead to thinning, shedding, dryness, scalp irritation, or even permanent hair loss. These changes affect more than appearance they touch deeply on self-esteem and emotional wellness.
This is where my professional training and personal journey meet. As an oncology-trained, Board-Certified Trichologist, I specialize in supporting survivors through the unique hair and scalp challenges that come after treatment. I know what it feels like to look in the mirror and not recognize yourself. I also know that with the right care, knowledge, and patience, survivors can reclaim their sense of self, restore scalp health, and nurture new growth.
The Power of Awareness and Support
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is not only about pink ribbons ,it’s about saving lives through awareness, screening, and early detection. It’s about reminding every woman, and man, to check regularly, to schedule mammograms, and to advocate for their health. It’s also about compassion for those in treatment, those in remission, and those we’ve lost.
For survivors, every year is a celebration of life. For me, reaching 12 years cancer-free is a reminder that healing is possible, and that we can rise stronger than before.
A Message to Survivors and Fighters
If you are currently battling breast cancer or living through survivorship, know that you are not alone. Your beauty, strength, and worth are not defined by your hair, your scars, or your illness. Healing is a journey, and you deserve care that honors your whole self/body, mind, and spirit.
As a trichologist and a survivor, I am committed to walking this journey with you, helping restore not just your hair and scalp, but also your confidence and peace of mind.
About the Author
Althea Gooden is a Board-Certified Trichologist, oncology-trained in caring for hair and scalp disorders related to breast cancer and other critical illnesses. A breast cancer survivor of 12 years, she is also the author of The Hair and Scalp Health Do’s and Don’ts: Essential Tips for Lifelong Vibrancy and Wellness. Learn more at www.altheagooden.com and find her e-book on Amazon.
As a Trichologist, I understand firsthand how cancer treatments affect not just the body, but also the hair and scalp. Hair loss, dryness, and scalp sensitivity are real struggles—but with the right care, healing and confidence can be restored. ✨
To every warrior walking this path: you are not alone. Your beauty and strength go far beyond what the mirror shows.
💖 With love and hope,
#BreastCancerAwareness #Trichologist #BreastCancerSurvivor #HairAndScalpHealth #OncologyCare #AltheaGooden
Althea Gooden 