Overland Park, KS – On Saturday, Arista Salon turned a regular haircut day into a charitable cut‑athon, inviting community members to donate their hair for children who have lost it to alopecia or medical treatment. More than 15 donors each contributed at least eight inches of hair, receiving a complimentary haircut in return.
Local organizer shares personal connection
Stella Johnson, a stylist at Arista who helped organize the event, has lived with alopecia areata herself. “I have alopecia areata, which is where the immune system attacks the hair follicles, causing the hair to fall out in round smooth patches,” Johnson explained. “It’s genetic, but I’m otherwise healthy.” She emphasized how hair carries deep personal meaning, especially for women, and how providing wig pieces can restore confidence for young patients.
Donors give generously
One donor, Milly Yarbrough, who hadn’t had a trim in seven years, contributed four twelve‑inch bundles, noting, “You’re gonna get to get it chopped for free and go to a good place.” Even KSHB 41 photographer Will Shaw joined the cause, cutting his own locks for a free haircut and to support the charity.
Why donations matter
Johnson pointed out that many insurance plans do not cover hair loss because they deem it a cosmetic issue. “A lot of insurance companies don’t cover hair loss because it’s considered a cosmetic problem,” she said. Through Children With Hair Loss, donated hair is crafted into wigs and toppers for children who cannot afford them, giving them a sense of normalcy.
How to get involved
The cut‑athon was a one‑day event, but Johnson noted that many Kansas City salons now offer similar donation opportunities, and individuals can also cut hair at home and mail it in. Those interested can find donation instructions on the organization’s website.
Arista Salon owner Courtney Peteanu added, “It’s the biggest thing, just being able to give them hair back.” The event highlights how a local business can rally the community around a compassionate cause, supporting families dealing with the emotional impact of hair loss.
Original reporting: KSHB 41 Kansas City (local) — read the source article.
