Thanks for sharing your story. I noticed mine in my senior highschool pictures. It was crippling to deal with in college. On top of that, I didn't get much emotional support. I think it would have made me a better person today had I sought some sort of counseling in the early stages. This site alone garners more support than I gave myself at the time. I would caution you not to feel ashamed. It just happens.
I've been through hell and I could have taken care of my mental health a bit better. I blamed everything- all my shortcomings on myself. I let other people tell me who I was or what I was capable of. Just remember this- in the early stages of this country, people were enslaved because of the color of their skin.
I view the treatment I get from people in a similar fashion-as an act of discrimination or hatred, although not everyone holds my opinion, or receives the treatment I receive. I take it pretty seriously. I can't change who I am or what I look like. Hopefully it's easier for you. I look at it this way, at least I am not ill. Some people have life much, much harder. Yet it still seems to be very debilitating for me. Don't ever let someone tell you how to feel, or how to deal. You yourself know how best to approach the situation. It's too late for me to go back and tell people to f*** off. I should have each and every time. It seems small, but has huge impact.
It's just hair. That's what some people say. Then still others act like you are broken or diseased. That's what I get anyway.
I'll tell you this- I appreciate the uniformity of no hair rather than wispy locks and cover. I was born bald anyways.
