American Cancer Society Opens Wig Bank at Lakes Region General Hospital

Wig Bank provides support for patients coping with hair loss from cancer treatment

LACONIA, NH - Many cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatment experience hair loss, and having a quality wig can often help patients feel more comfortable and confident during their treatment. The Wig Bank is a community-based, free service program of the American Cancer Society and Lakes Region General Hospital. Dedicated to helping people enhance their appearance and self-image during cancer treatment, the Wig Bank provides patients with a wig, instructions on how to care for it, and emotional support.

“With the opening of this Wig Bank, cancer patients in the Lakes Region will be able to receive free support to cope with their treatment-related hair loss,” said Allyson Foor of the American Cancer Society.

“For many patients, especially women, hair loss can be a very difficult side-effect of treatment,” says LRGHealthcare Breast Health Coordinator Ginny Witkin, RN. “Through the Wig Bank, patients in our community will have convenient and free access to high quality wigs. This service will be beneficial to so many patients who will no longer have to worry about how to afford or find a wig after treatment-related hair loss.”

The Wig Bank at Lakes Region General Hospital is located near the Oncology Department. Caring, trained volunteers will help cancer patients select or order an appropriate wig, and advise them on other support services that may be available.

The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy, and service. Founded in 1913 and with national headquarters in Atlanta, the Society has 13 regional Divisions and local offices in 3,400 communities, involving millions of volunteers across the United States. For more information anytime, call toll free 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.

LRGHealthcare, a not-for-profit healthcare charitable trust, represents Franklin Regional Hospital, Lakes Region General Hospital, Affiliated Medical Providers, HealthLink, Community Wellness Centers, the Dental Resource Center, the Holistic Health Center, and other community-based services. LRGHealthcare is committed to making health care available, accessible, and affordable to you.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Office of Public Relations & Marketing
80 Highland Street
Laconia, NH 03246
Phone (603) 527-2812
Fax (603) 527-7185