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Love is in the hair: How a wig loan scheme helps restore cancer survivors’ confidence

ST20250311_202558400988/xbwig/Neo Xiaobin
/Following Dwi Rahayu (Dwi), 53, who was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer in 2024 after she detected a lump in her right breast during an annual medical screening conducted by her company in August. Within one to two weeks of chemotherapy treatment, she experienced significant hair loss. Because it got patchy, and she decided to shave her head entirely. Through the Wig Loan Programme, Dwi was introduced to different wig styles, and Dwirelied on BCF’s expertise to choose one that best suited her. Dwii decided to participate in the programme so she could wear a wig for events or social gatherings without always having to think about how to cover her head.

/Launched by Breast Cancer Foundation (BCF) in 2017, the positive image and appearance scheme is an all-inclusive program designed to help breast cancer survivors be the best versions of themselves. The program offers a complimentary wig loan service to provide support for breast cancer survivors. Currently, BCF is the only organisation in Singapore offering such a programme. BCF has its own wig room, where survivors can try on different styles to choose one that suits their needs and preferences. The organisation also has ties with local salons, allowing these women to style the wigs according to their preferred length and style, helping them feel and be the best version of themselves. The Straits Times look into breast cancer survivors’ challenges with chemotherapy and hair loss, and how the wigs have played a pivotal role in empowering them with confidence and a renewed sense of beauty.

/Breast Cancer Foundation, Sin Ming Ave, #01-417 Block 441, Singapore 570441 | Geranium Skin & Hair Boutique, 26 Horne Rd, #01-01 B H Building, Singapore 209062

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(From left) SPH Media editor-in-chief of English, Malay, and Tamil Media Group Wong Wei Kong, Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, SPH Media chairman Khaw Boon Wan, SPH Media CEO Chan Yeng Kit, The Straits Times editor Jaime Ho launching The Straits Times 180th anniversary gala dinner at Jewel Changi Airport on July 11, 2025. ST PHOTO: KEVIN LIM ptstraits11

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#ST20250403_202551000765/Desmond Foo/ Captions to come. Arrival of Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link trains at Jurong Port in Singapore. pixrts00 ST20250403_202551000765

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MDDI (P) 046/10/2025. Published by SPH Media Limited, Co. Regn. No.202120748H. Copyright © 2025 SPH Media Limited. All rights reserved.