Mother’s Son Grows Hair for Over 2 Years to Make Wig Amid Her Battle with Brain Tumor
In a heartwarming gesture of love and support, a son from Arizona grew out his hair for more than two years to create a wig for his mother, who lost her hair due to radiation treatment for a brain tumor. Melanie Shaha, a 61-year-old mother of six, underwent several procedures after doctors discovered a benign brain tumor in her pituitary gland in 2003.
Melanie’s Battle
The pituitary gland, a vital organ at the base of the brain, regulates essential bodily functions such as growth and fertility. Melanie underwent surgery to remove the tumor, which reappeared in 2006, requiring a second operation. Despite these challenges, in 2017, when the tumor recurred for the third time, she opted for radiation treatment.
Radiation Treatment and Hair Loss
Radiation therapy, a common treatment for brain tumors, often results in hair loss at the treated site. Melanie experienced hair loss as a consequence of this therapy, a condition that affected her self-image profoundly. Losing her hair made her feel conspicuous and vulnerable, especially in public settings.
A Son’s Remarkable Gesture
In 2018, Melanie’s son, Matt, then 28 years old, made a lighthearted yet poignant offer during a family lunch: to grow out his hair to create a wig for his mother. Despite Melanie’s initial reluctance, Matt persisted and spent over two years growing his hair, ultimately accumulating a length of 12 inches.
The Wig Creation Process
With the help of his coworkers, Matt finally had his long locks cut off in March 2022. The hair was then sent to Compassionate Creations in Newport Beach, California, where it was meticulously crafted into a hand-stitched wig. The entire process, from growing the hair to crafting the wig, was an emotional journey for both mother and son.
The Outcome
The finished wig, costing $2,000, was a testament to Matt’s unwavering love and dedication to his mother. The wig perfectly matched Melanie’s complexion and was styled to enhance her natural beauty. Both Melanie and Matt were overwhelmed with emotion upon seeing the final result.
Surprising Viral Response
The heartwarming story of Matt’s selfless act quickly captured the attention of people worldwide, resonating deeply with countless individuals. Melanie and Matt were surprised and grateful for the overwhelming response their story received, acknowledging the power of kindness and familial love.
Continued Gratitude and Celebration
To this day, Melanie proudly wears the wig crafted by her son, a tangible symbol of his love and sacrifice. As Mother’s Day approaches, Matt plans to celebrate his remarkable mother and her resilience in the face of adversity, cherishing moments of togetherness and reflection as a family.
