The story started 23 years ago when I was 21. It was towards the end of my nursing degree and I was experiencing a little stress in my life. I was navigating finishing University and starting a new job. I noticed a few tiny bald spots and thought no more of it. 

I assumed that the bald spots had disappeared and that was that – I never even received a diagnosis.

In October last year (2022) I noticed a couple of bald spots and also some missing hair around the hairline at the back of the head. A dermatologist told me I had Alopecia Areata with a subtype of Ophiasis – very resistant to medical intervention. 

In October I received some steroid injections into the smaller patches which I did not then repeat as I had an unexpected hospital admission and was suffering from vertigo so couldn’t drive.

The patches remained small until March this year when I had a traumatic fall off a mountain bike resulting in an injured shoulder and snapped ligaments in my thumb which required an operation. 

In April I had to make an emergency trip to see my terminally ill father in the UK. During this time I had diffuse shedding and so opted to shave my head.

Returning to work I had my eyebrows tattooed and purchased a wig. I thought it would look natural. I attempted to wear this for 2 weeks in a very busy maternity unit.  I found it hot, itchy and very heavy and it would move at the most inopportune moments. I now wear brightly coloured head scarves or a beanie. 

The dermatologist offered options of immunosuppressant medications, topical immunosuppressant medication or high-dose steroids. I opted for none of these options. 

I am seeking to raise awareness now of Alopecia Areata through sport.