To shave or not to shave?

My hair is falling out more and more these days. It is everywhere! It's all over the backs of my shirts and coats, it's on the floor, in the sink, in my food... blech! Surprisingly, though, I still have enough on my head so that the thinning isn't noticeable.

I've read a lot of blogs/websites/articles that say people going through chemotherapy treatments will often cut or shave their hair before it falls out so that they feel "in control." Well, my co-worker said to me last week, "that might be true, but it could also be true that keeping your hair is another way you stay 'in control.'"

So, part of me want to get rid of my hair so I don't have to worry about it (and seeing it) falling out. But mostly, I want to keep it. I have an appointment this week with my wig shop friend and I want to see what she thinks, too.


My friend, Julie, writes a beautiful blog and if you have a moment to check out her thoughts, here is the link: http://juliehappenings.blogspot.com/. She wrote tonight about grief and while I am not strictly talking about grief in my post (or am I? The loss of my hair has surely caused me grief), this quote really stood out to me:

"No one is allowed to tell you what you should feel, ever. Or what you should do next. You get a free pass to make those decisions 100% selfishly." 

I hear opinions from others about what to do with my hair and it's fine, even if I do feel a little insecure or angry (see previous posts). I just have to remember that the decision is up to me and only me. 

But a little voice inside says...help?