A few years ago our family experienced a surprising bump on our life path when our then 4 year old daughter was diagnosed with the autoimmune disease alopecia areata. Alopecia areata is a common, non-contagious autoimmune disease where the body confuses the hair follicle as a foreign substance (like a germ), attacks it and causes hair loss. Alopecia progresses differently for each individual and can cause patch hair loss all the way to total baldness. As well, hair can regrow at any time only to be lost again. In our daughter's case, she lost all her hair and is a fabulously beautiful, brave, adventurous and BALD 7-yr-old! Though we all went through an adjustment period, we arrived at a place where we all celebrate how unique our daughter's situation is and concluded that being bald would never limit her life possibilities, rather serve as a reminder of how special she is. Everyday our daughter takes risks and shows courage--just walking into a restaurant with every eye following you and every child (often loudly) asking about the girl with no hair, requires this. In the spirit of our daughter's inspiring bravery and confidence, we all began living life and making choices differently. Our recent purchase of this home is one way in which we follow our daughter's example, take risks, and follow a 'no excuses' philosophy to living our dreams and passions. If a 7-yr-old who faces the world bald and so very different can do it, can't we? Can't you?
Join our family in getting out there, creating adventures and trying new things. Tahoe is the best place in the world for it!
If you would like to learn more about alopecia areata and the amazing children and adults whose lives this disease affects, please visit the National Alopecia Areata Foundation's website.
Thank you for sharing our story,
The Robbins Family