A courageous 13-year-old girl, Olivia Young, is confronting a challenging health diagnosis with remarkable resilience. Diagnosed with alopecia in May, Olivia, often called Liv, has experienced rapid hair loss despite various treatments.
“I started reflecting on how many others might struggle with alopecia or an autoimmune disease,” Liv shares. “I wanted to share my story to let people know that feeling unattractive or out of place is normal. Hair is important to many people, including me, but what truly matters is what’s on the inside.”
To support Olivia, an online fundraising page on Givealittle has been established by Shannon Ellison. The page highlights Olivia’s brave battle with hair loss and seeks donations to help the Young family purchase a high-quality human hair wig and cover ongoing medical costs.
The page reads: “Olivia rocks no locks with grace, but like any 13-year-old, she has faced challenges most of us can hardly imagine. We aim to raise funds to help Liv live her best life while managing alopecia.”
Liv recounts the shock of her diagnosis: “It started with a small patch, and when we went to the doctor, we saw several patches. Losing my hair quickly was painful, and it was a big shock for my family too. It was tough thinking that this might be the last time I see my natural hair.”
Initially sporting a mullet with some remaining hair, Liv and her family began searching for comfortable and affordable real hair wigs. They found Freedom Hair in Dunedin, where they received valuable support and information. “There’s a long wait for high-quality wigs, from six months to two years,” Liv explains.
The Young family also visited Hair Creations in Eden Terrace, Auckland, and purchased a lace wig that Liv currently wears. Despite the challenges, Liv remains positive: “I tell myself to take each day as it comes and try to be inspirational.”
Liv feels deeply supported by her community. “I felt very alone when I first learned about my alopecia, but now I feel surrounded by love and support,” she says. “The outpouring of support online has been overwhelming, and I’m incredibly grateful for every donation, kind comment, and hug.”
Liv’s mother, Joanne Young, notes that while there is a $1200 government subsidy available every three years for under-18s, it is insufficient given the high costs of the wigs. “The lace wig cost $3500, and the Freedom Wig is around $6000. These wigs, being made of human hair, only last two to four years before needing replacement,” Joanne explains.
Liv and her family continue to appreciate the support they’ve received from their community, friends, and Shannon Ellison for initiating the Givealittle page.