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CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. (January 5, 2009) - Two
Female Marines from the 2nd Marine Logistics Group came together
this holiday season to donate more than 26 inches of hair to
financially disadvantaged children.
Cpl. Kendra Hernandez, a legal clerk with Headquarters and
Service Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 27, 2nd MLG, and Cpl.
Kimberly Pike, an administrative clerk with the 2nd MLG
Administrative Section, cut off 14 and 12 inches of their hair
respectively to give to Locks of Love.
The non-profit organization provides hair pieces to children
under the age of 18 who suffer from long-term medical hair loss.
According to Locks of Love, recipients suffer primarily from an
autoimmune disorder called alopecia areata, which causes hair
follicles to shut down. In addition to loss of scalp hair, many
lose their eyelashes, eyebrows and all body hair.
"It benefits kids and young adults," said Pike, a native of
Wilson, N.C. "I wanted to cut my hair anyway, so this was a great
way for me to help another person in need."
Donations from individuals like these Marines have contributed
to Locks of Love helping more than 2,000 children to date
throughout all 50 states and Canada. With continued support, the
organization will move closer to its goal of helping "every
financially disadvantaged child suffering from long term hair
loss."
The organization also strives to return a sense of
self-confidence and normalcy to children affected by hair loss.
Many children are embarrassed about their conditions and receive
ridicule from others growing up, often withdrawing themselves from
normal childhood and adolescent activities, according to the
organization's website.
This loss of self-confidence and normalcy in others was what
motivated Hernandez to grow her hair as long as possible with the
plan of donating. The Powell, Wyo. native said she originally had
10 inches of hair, which is the minimum for donating. She wanted to
be sure that the organization would have enough hair to help
someone, so she chose to grow an extra four inches those next two
months.
"Children are afraid of what they don't know," said Pike, mother
of a 15-month-old daughter. "Most children won't understand what's
wrong with children suffering from hair loss and therefore won't
interact with them."
The two Marines agreed that it would be easy for other female
Marines to donate because of how often they cut their hair to
shorter lengths. They hope that others will see their efforts and
join in to help others in need.
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