Stuart, Fla. – Local firefighter and paramedic Sabrina Price is turning her personal battle with alopecia into a community‑wide call for understanding. Diagnosed at age 12, Price has chosen Alopecia Awareness Month in September to run a total of 100 miles, spreading a message that hair does not define a person’s worth.
From Diagnosis to Determination
Price says she tries not to let alopecia dominate her daily thoughts. “I don’t think that having hair defines you as a person,” she explained. The autoimmune condition, which causes sudden hair loss, could have been a source of shame, but Price views it as a blessing that deepened her gratitude and empathy.
Family, Faith, and Community Support
Raised in Stuart, Price credits her family and faith for the strength she needed during her first wig fitting and later when she chose to cut her own hair. “I couldn’t be more grateful for my family and the support system I’ve had every step of the way,” she said.
Her husband, children, and fellow first‑responders have joined her in the effort, helping to organize runs and share her story on social media. The community response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many local churches and civic groups offering encouragement and logistical help.
Partnering with the National Alopecia Areata Foundation
Price was introduced to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF) through a friend of her father, who also lives with alopecia. NAAF, the world’s largest nonprofit funder of alopecia areata research, provides resources, support groups, and funding for scientific studies. Price’s partnership with NAAF amplifies her outreach, connecting local residents with national expertise.
Running for Awareness
Throughout September, Price will log 100 miles in a series of runs across the Treasure Coast, from Stuart to nearby Jensen Beach and beyond. Each mile is marked by a banner reading, “Bald is beautiful, and you are not defined by the amount of hair on your head.” The runs are open to anyone who wishes to join, reinforcing the message that community solidarity can turn personal challenges into collective strength.
Why Awareness Matters
Beyond personal empowerment, raising awareness helps reduce stigma and encourages early diagnosis. Alopecia can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, and many sufferers experience emotional distress due to misconceptions. By sharing her journey, Price hopes to foster a more compassionate environment for those living with the condition.
Local health officials note that autoimmune disorders are on the rise nationwide, making community education essential. While there is no cure for alopecia, ongoing research funded by organizations like NAAF aims to develop better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
How to Get Involved
Residents who wish to support Price’s effort can attend any of the scheduled runs, donate to NAAF, or simply spread the message on social media using the hashtag #BaldIsBeautiful. Information about run dates and meeting points is available on the NAAF website and through Price’s public‑service department’s Facebook page.
Price’s story exemplifies the Treasure Coast’s spirit of resilience, faith, and service. As she laces up her running shoes each morning, she reminds us that true strength comes not from outward appearance but from the heart and the willingness to help others.
Original reporting: WPBF (Treasure Coast / Hearst) — read the source article.
