A Written Update on my Progress in the Activity:

Since my last update, I have experienced significant success in my tennis. In early September, my team qualified for the grand final in our winter league. Unfortunately, we were not victorious on the day, however, each captain was provided with the opportunity to address a small crowd. As a captain, I spoke on my team’s behalf, and made mentions to the Australian Alopecia Areata Foundation (AAAF) for sponsoring my tennis. In particular, I announced the valuable work contributed by the organisation and how their sponsorship is ultimately allowing me to fulfil my sense of purpose through being a positive advocate.

I am continuing to wear my alopecia shirts during club training and the benefit of such behaviour has been seen through the questions asked by new players in regards to its meaning. When proposed with the question, I always attempt to relate my response to my personal life by alluding to the condition’s effects during my early development. I have found that conveying personality within my explanations has led to other players becoming significantly more interested in my words and therefore, more engaged in what it means to not only hold awareness of alopecia but also support those with the condition.

In September, I participated in the Adelaide City-to-Bay fun run. This activity was instrumental in supplying me with another framework to raise awareness about alopecia. I ensured to wear my AAAF shirt, and after the race, I prompted various conversations with fellow participants. These participants were predominantly Flinders University students, and I communicated what it represented to be someone living with alopecia. Interestingly, a few conversations held a back and forth theme, where I was commonly asked about my hair growth despite being diagnosed with the condition. When framed this question, I always discuss my experiences with Baricitinib, promoting the awareness of how its positive effects on my hair growth inherently revolutionalised my life, not only mentally but also socially.

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Oscar was a part of our sponsorship program – you can also participate! Go here to learn more https://aaaf.org.au/sponsorship-program