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Caps donated for cancer patients

Seventy handmade caps have been donated to Royal North Shore Hospital’s wig library at the cancer centre for patients experiencing hair loss as a result of medical issues and cancer treatment.

Members of the Buddhist charity organisation Tzu Chi Foundation Australia made the colourful caps which are designed for all head shapes and sizes.

Northern Sydney Cancer Centre Cansupport Manager Nicola Guy said the wig library looks after 200 to 300 women and some men every year, but there’s many more patients who don’t necessarily want a wig and opt for head wear.

"A lot of our patients are not working or have to take time off work during their treatment, so access to wigs and head wear at no cost is a really valuable service for them," she said.

"The availability of beautiful headwear is really important for our patients, supporting their wellbeing and helping them through what is a very difficult time."

The availability of beautiful headwear is really important for our patients, supporting their wellbeing and helping them through what is a very difficult time.
Nicola Guy, RNSH's Northern Sydney Cancer Centre Cansupport Manager

Nicola said she can’t thank Tzu Chi Foundation enough for the generous donation.

"The caps are really remarkable – the print is colourful and they are really stylish. Patients will appreciate feeling smart and colourful," she said.

"The headwear and wigs from the service allow patients to feel more dignified and confident. It can restore some sense of normality during the challenges of treatment and hair loss."

Tzu Chi Foundation member Sharon Frazer was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia and had a bone marrow transplant at Royal North Shore Hospital in 2017.

"Wearing a chemo cap provided me with a sense of comfort and security during cancer treatment," Sharon said.

"Colourful and stylish caps really lifted my spirits and helped me feel more confident during treatment.

"We will continue to make caps for cancer patients at RNSH to show our support and share love, hope and happiness."

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