Wig Bank for Cancer Patients Coming to AVMC

To support women who are undergoing cancer treatment and experiencing hair loss, Antelope Valley Medical Center (AVMC) has joined with the American Cancer Society to open a wig bank on the hospital campus in Lancaster. Hair loss is the most known and visible side effect of chemotherapy. Through this program, cancer patients can receive one free, high-quality wig free of charge in a safe and comforting environment.

"Dealing with a cancer diagnosis and going through treatment is hard enough," said AVMC Cancer Program Coordinator Patricia Karnstedt, RN, MSN, OCN. "But, especially for women, the hair loss can be really unsettling. At the wig bank, women will find the support they need to look and feel their best while fighting this disease."

Trained wig bank volunteers provide one-on-one consultations to help find a wig that fits each patient’s lifestyle. They also offer insight into using and caring for wigs as well as suggestions for how to utilize turbans and scarves as an alternative to a wig. Adults interested in becoming a trained wig bank volunteer may call 661-949-5145 or send an email to Patricia.Karnstedt@avmc.org.

The wig bank will be open every other Monday from 1-5 p.m. beginning March 12. Appointments are required and can be made by calling 1-800-227-2345.

Additionally, AVMC and the American Cancer Society are holding "Look Good Feel Better," beauty-makeover workshops for women fighting cancer, every other month on the third Monday of the month. The next one will be April 21. Participants can register by calling 1-800-227-2345.

Antelope Valley Medical Center is a nationally recognized Comprehensive Community Cancer Center, providing complete and personalized cancer care – from screening to diagnosis to treatment and survivorship. For more information visit www.avmc.org/Services/CancerCare.