There may be a new hair trend popping up in our community. Young girls with Rapunzel-like tresses are opting for a shorter shag, courtesy of hair stylists such as Cassie Cornish of Shear Elegance in Hendersonville. 

“It’s more than just a haircut,” says Cassie. These girls are donating their long locks to those battling cancer and other diseases where hair loss is part of the fight, and Cassie is donating her time and expertise. She only charges half price for the haircut— enough to cover shipping the hair.

After eighteen years in the hair and beauty industry, Cassie was ignited into this special service a few months ago. Her friend’s daughter was diagnosed with bone cancer in March at the age of fifteen and was losing her hair rapidly. 

An honorable and difficult task, Cassie was asked to shave the young girl’s head because she was the girl’s hair stylist, and she was comfortable around her. “That was the hardest thing I think I’ve ever had to do. It was understandably so emotional for her and her parents.”

This experience made Cassie understand how important her role as a stylist is. “She just really touched my heart, and I knew that I had to continue giving back.”

That’s when Cassie found Wigs for Kids, an organization where free wigs are given to each child in need, valued at over $1,800 per wig.

She went on to earn her certification as an Affiliate Stylist for the organization and bears the title of Certified Service Provider. Not only cutting donor’s tresses, Cassie also works with each recipient. She measures her head to find the proper wig, and then shows her how to put on and style her new hair. “It’s just my little way of giving back to people who need someone to support them.”

A recent donor, 6-year-old Eva Martin was nervous before giving her hair for the first time. Cassie recounts, “I told her, ‘God made you able to grow long hair. Not everyone can do that. He did that so you can help another child.’” 

It was a touching moment for Eva’s mother, Christine, too, “It was such a precious way to start this time together, and it really set Eva at ease.” It’s a conversation Cassie has with every donor. 

“I really want them to know that this is so much more than just them cutting their hair,” Cassie says.

Word is spreading around North Nashville. According to WFK’s Hair Donation Specialist Locator, Cassie is the only certified specialist in this area, and her schedule is filled with many young ladies wishing to donate their hair too. 

If you would like more information on Wigs for Kids, check out their website at www.wigsforkids.org.