Tuesday 22 May 2012

The Future Starts Here



I started writing this blog following my own diagnosis with breast cancer in May 2009. Now, three years later, it's time to move on - and to give something back.

My story has been told, both on this blog and in my book The Elegant Art of Falling Apart [Hachette, Australia; Unbound, UK].

But the Chemo Chic story continues with the launch of The Chemo Chic Project.

The Chemo Chic Project is about living well, now, in this moment. It's about looking great despite our hair falling out. It's about eating delicious and health-giving food. It's about getting through the tears and laughter that each day brings, sharing the load and helping one another. 

Here you’ll find useful information on everything from tying scarves and finding natural and organic make-up, to accessing benefits to meditation techniques and simple, healthy but delicious recipes. There are also links to all of the most helpful and fantastic cancer related websites on our Address Book page.

Chemo Chic is for everyone who has experienced cancer – now or in the past. Chemo Chic is for everyone whose friend, family member or loved one has experienced cancer – now or in the past. In short, Chemo Chic is for everyone.

We want YOUR input. From your tales of wigs to recipes to make-up tips or brushes with crazy cancer cures - your experience will make all the difference to someone else who is yet to face the trauma and triumph of becoming totally Chemo Chic.

Together, we can create a brilliant resource for anyone going through the trauma of cancer. If you have a story that can inspire others, or just some good practical experience, then you have something to offer to The Chemo Chic Project. 

I sincerely thank you for your support, love and attention over the past three years. Please come over and visit The Chemo Chic Project website.


Chemo Chic is not about me, its about sharing what I've learned. Now I am asking you to do the same - Jessica Jones, founder of The Chemo Chic Project.

Wednesday 9 May 2012

How the World of Wigs Has Changed


Deepa had to go through the trauma of losing her hair as a teenager. Now, she's facing it all over again. Deepa writes...

My first 'wig experience' was 29 years ago. I was 14 and had just been diagnosed with leukaemia. An NHS 'wig woman' came to see me in my hospital room. She did not like that my mum, my dad's work colleague and I were being silly trying on all sorts of wigs to help me deal with losing my waist length hair. Thinking that a bald head might be slippy, I asked her ,"what would happen if it is windy" (thinking the wig might blow off). She replied in very cold tones "well you'll just have to be careful won't you". I never did wear the appalling wig that was supplied. Now, so many years later I'm back there again contemplating hair loss as this time I face breast cancer. The person I am seeing couldn't be more different - kind, understanding and accommodating. It feels as if it matters to him that the wig I have should look absolutely real. Things have certainly changed.

I hope that Deepa will keep us updated with her wig story as it unfolds (photos please!)

If you have a story to share, please email it to: chemochic@02.co.uk