Comment by Mary on February 13, 2010 at 4:46pm

YES!!! Good for you, Galena! Did you read my blog last year about coming out bald at my synagogue? Same kind of experience. I also remember the first time I taught my dance class, or performed with my band bald. It's all about first steps, and this was another huge one for you. You're so right about missing the chance to have a positive connection with others, too. I've met so many wonderful people because of my lack of hair. Congratulations! Mary

Comment by Rick Seymour on February 13, 2010 at 5:20pm

"If I had not pushed through this psychological hurdle to be my authentic self" That is excellenet! Did they not know about Alopecia and you? take care

Comment by Galena on February 13, 2010 at 8:04pm

Thank you for your inspiration Mary! I remembered your story and thought of you and The Sisterhood before I decided to walk into that classroom.
Hi Rick! I'm a law enforcement instructor. LE officers are very observant--many were curious and a couple of female officers asked me why I was wearing a wig. I was known for my beautiful long hair, so it was somewhat shocking to my co-workers that I kept this hidden and kept working. Someone said it showed great strength when actually I was just trying to survive through it.

Comment by Mary on February 13, 2010 at 8:38pm

This is awesome, Galena! It seems like a lot of male LE officers have adopted the shaved-head look. It's very powerful-looking and easy to maintain, so I can understand why. A bald LE instructor should fit right in.

Comment by Galena on February 14, 2010 at 6:56pm

I hope so Mary. My male training director is supportive. I'm very grateful that he is willing to defend me against anyone who may be critical of my look. I will probably still pick my moments to come out--the attention was overwhelming and I'm an introverted extrovert.

Comment by Mary on February 14, 2010 at 7:30pm

I've always thought of myself as an extroverted introvert, Galena! (Or, maybe I'm the other way around.)

Comment by Galena on February 15, 2010 at 7:51pm

So we are ambivert--having aspects of both. Sounds like the proper balance to me.

Comment by Mary on February 15, 2010 at 8:11pm

"Ambivert" - perfect!

Comment by Linda on February 22, 2010 at 8:34pm

Hi Galena, YOU GO GIRL!!!! I'm so happy that you decided to shed your headcover and show the world your full beauty. I went back to school and plan to unveil my Alopecia story during one of my speeches in Speech 101. You are truly the model of strength and I'm sure you are much more relaxed now that you've walked in your "BALDNESS"!

Comment by Galena on February 22, 2010 at 11:09pm

Hi Linda, it's so good to hear from you! Yes it's a good feeling to be appreciated for your authentic self. Some women officers consider me a role model; I'm humbled and honored that they feel that way. Lots more talking about the subject of alopecia than I care to do in a given week. But I have an opportunity to make a positive impact for all of us and I don't squander the moment acting impatient. I'm trying to get to 100% confidence like you, Mary and the other Sisters who are comfortable in their skin. This process has shown me that I had yet to overcome some insecurities before the hair loss and now I'm getting stronger each day.
Take Care,
~G

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