In an inspiring tale of determination and triumph, Clair Hodges, a mother of three, has not only conquered breast cancer but has also achieved her lifelong dream of opening a hair salon. As October marks the one-year anniversary of Essex Bridal Hair, located in Market Lane, Wickford, Clair has yet another reason to celebrate – her salon recently clinched the coveted Beauty Full silver award.
Essex Bridal Hair, with the motto “go big, or go home,” specializes in creating stunning bouncy blow-drys, elegant updos, and glamorous wedding hairstyles. For Clair, the journey to establishing this business was filled with obstacles, including a two-year battle with breast cancer that put her dreams on hold.
Clair’s determination to pursue her passion for hair and beauty began long before her cancer diagnosis in 2018. She had already started hair and beauty courses, laying the foundation for her future business while balancing the responsibilities of being a stay-at-home mom to her three children. Tragically, Clair received her cancer diagnosis just three months after giving birth to her third child.
For two arduous years, Clair put her entrepreneurial ambitions aside to focus on her health and undergo rigorous cancer treatments. It was a challenging journey, but she emerged victorious, entering remission and regaining her strength. Alongside her triumphant battle against cancer, Clair manages the long-term condition Fibromyalgia, which causes widespread pain in the body. Despite these challenges, she remains resolute and optimistic.
Reflecting on her achievements, Clair shared her surprise and gratitude upon winning the Beauty Full silver award. She recalled, “I was shocked and amazed to have won a silver award in the competition. I had watched the finals online but when I realized I hadn’t won gold I thought, ‘Oh well, that’s that,’ and thought nothing of it. When I sat down to go through my emails on Saturday and saw that I had won, I couldn’t believe it. It shows we are doing the right things and it is a great way to mark the first-year anniversary.”
Clair’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the resilience of the human spirit. Her journey from cancer survivor to successful business owner is an inspiration to us all. Essex Bridal Hair continues to thrive, offering top-notch hair and beauty services to its clientele.
For more information about Essex Bridal Hair and to experience the magic of Clair’s hairstyling expertise, visit their official website at www.essexbridalhairofficial.co.uk or connect with them on Facebook by searching “Essex Bridal Hair.” Clair’s story serves as a reminder that with determination and a passion for one’s dreams, even the most challenging obstacles can be overcome.