Wig boutique helping Floyd cancer patients reclaim confidence

“With cancer comes a loss of control.”

A simple statement that captures the uncertainty, vulnerability and fading sense of self that can accompany a cancer diagnosis. Working with patients to restore even small pieces of that control is what gives Jill Crawford’s work meaning.

“I try to understand their needs and help connect them to resources that make a difference,” Jill shared.

For nearly 10 years, Jill has advocated for patients through diagnosis, treatment and recovery as the Breast Nurse Navigator at Baptist Health Floyd’s Cancer Center. During that time, she’s seen the center continue to grow – welcoming more patients, adding providers and expanding access to care across a largely rural region.

Through conversations with patients, Jill has learned that changes to one’s body are among the most emotional aspects of the cancer journey.

Regaining a sense of agency can make a difference, which is why she champions the Wig and Mastectomy Bra Boutique.

“Being able to choose a hairstyle gives them more confidence going into treatment,” Jill said.

Located within the cancer center, the donor-funded boutique offers patients a private, welcoming space where they can try on wigs or be fitted for a mastectomy bra – free of charge.

“We let patients know it’s available, and then we allow them to come in on their own time,” Jill explained. “Some ask for help, and others just want to come in with a family member and have fun. We give them that space.”

Because of generous donors, the boutique offers a growing variety of wigs – longer styles, different colors and options that reflect the individuality of today’s patients.

“We’re seeing younger patients,” Jill said. “They’re not going to want gray wigs or shorter cuts. Having options makes a big difference.”

The same is true for mastectomy bras, which are designed to support healing and help clothing fit comfortably after surgery.

“We do a Bras and Breakfast event once a year, but in the meantime, donor support helps us cover those needs for patients,” Jill explained. “A mastectomy bra might help a woman feel comfortable wearing a feminine shirt again. It’s amazing what it does for them.”

Wigs and specialty garments can be expensive, and for patients facing mounting medical bills, they’re often out of reach. Donor support ensures cost is never a barrier to confidence or self-expression. And while many associate wigs with women, Jill is quick to point out that the boutique serves more than one group.

“Men use the wigs too,” she said. “Any patient going through chemotherapy and losing their hair has access to this.”

Finding joy during chemotherapy can feel hard to imagine, but for patients, the boutique offers a rare moment to focus on themselves. A place to pause. A chance to choose. A few minutes of deserved vanity. An opportunity to reclaim something that feels familiar in the midst of uncertainty.

“These resources are so impactful,” Jill shared. “As simple as it seems to us, it’s a game changer for our patients. It gives them confidence, and it gives them hope.”