Cambria County salon gives cancer, hair-loss patients confidence

RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - Losing your hair because of medical treatments can be traumatic, but a salon in Richland Township is helping people by pairing them with natural wigs.

Niccola’s Hair Salon started the program in January and has helped about 30 people since they started.

One of her clients is Connie Simmons. She recently started chemotherapy to help battle her cancer.

“My first thought was my family; my second thought was I'm going to lose my hair,” said Simmons.

That's where the owner of the salon, Niccola Henry, comes in to help with her natural wig program.

“A natural wig you can curl it, perm it, style it, you can do anything with it. That's my goal is to make everyone feel natural,” said Henry.

Henry shuts down her salon on certain days so she can have private and free consultations to help clients choose their wigs.

Simmons said the process was very easy.

"They brought out pictures, they should me this is what we can do for you, these are the different styles we have,” said Simmons.

Some may not think getting a wig is a big priority, but Simmons believes it will be the perfect pick-me-up after a day of chemo.

"It's the little things that help. If you wake up and shower and put your hair piece on, that's going to make a heck of a difference."

Simmons ordered her wig and is now waiting for it to be delivered. That’s when Henry will call her in to cut and style the wig, all for free.

Henry said the clients only pay for the wig itself, which varies in price. She also offers to help clients maintain the wig for a minimal price.

Henry thinks feeling good about yourself is something you really can’t put a price tag on.

"When I see a client and they are feeling their worst, and I cut their hair and their so happy. That makes me feel so good because I did the best thing for them," said Henry.

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