It isn’t something that most want. The name toupee is synonymous with a feeble attempt by a middle-aged man looking for something a little cheaper than a Corvette to maintain his youth.
A little less dignified than the comb-over, and more expensive than shaving your head completely.
Why would anyone want to wear a toupee?
That is just what nine Grade 7 students and St. Anthony’s vice principal Celeste Schrock did Tuesday. They participated in Toupee for a Day.
While the toupee is maligned, on March 7, it had a meaningful purpose for Wellspring Calgary and its quest to support those battling and recovering from cancer. While cancer treatment can rob patients of their hair, Wellspring’s Toupee For a Day puts it back.
And what a toupee it is. The bun-like hairpiece has a bright green chinstrap and has a rainbow of colour. Schrock explains that each colour represents a different form of cancer; pink for breast cancer, green for throat cancer and lavender for supporters.
Schrock says the toupees are to raise awareness and to raise funds.
Wellspring Calgary is a non-profit organization, dedicated to support people living with cancer and their families. It 's mission is “…providing a comprehensive range of cancer supports, resources and programs for patients and their families so they can develop skills and strategies to improve their quality of life during and beyond cancer.”
It operates Carma House, out of which it delivers many of its dozens of services and activities.
