I’m raising money for Alopecia UK, a charity that means so much to me and my family. When our mom was diagnosed with alopecia in 2019, we quickly realised just how heartbreaking and life-changing hair loss can be. It also opened our eyes to how overlooked alopecia is, and how few people truly understand the emotional impact it can have until they experience it themselves.

Alopecia is an autoimmune condition that is often unseen and misunderstood by those who don’t know much about it. After very few doctors’ and hospital appointments, we were told there was nothing they could offer to help treat the condition. There is very little support available, especially when it comes to emotional and mental wellbeing.

Alopecia UK themselves offered my mom meaningful and consistent support during the first few months after her diagnosis. From Zoom meetings and phone calls to ongoing guidance and reassurance, they were there when we needed them most. We are forever grateful for the kindness, understanding, and incredible work they do for families like ours.

We have carefully chosen to support charities like Alopecia UK because we know the real and lasting impact they can have on the lives of people experiencing hair loss. Alopecia can completely change your life within days, weeks, or months, often with no warning signs and no available treatments. We can’t begin to imagine how parents of children going through this must feel. As a family, seeing my mom go through it has left us heartbroken and helpless at times.

I’ve wanted to cut my hair for a while, but knowing the difference a hair donation can make inspired me to do it for a meaningful reason. That’s why I’m doing a sponsored haircut — to raise awareness, offer support, and help make a difference wherever possible. The hair I’m having cut off will be donated to Little Lady Locks, another incredible charity that mainly supports young children experiencing hair loss.

We want to spread awareness of this condition and encourage people to help in any way they can, whether that’s through a small donation, sharing this page, or simply learning more about alopecia and the incredible work these charities do.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read our story. Any support you’re able to give - no matter how big or small - means the world to us and we are truly grateful. Alex Roper