For some people, hair grows quickly, thickly, and reliably. For others, it doesn't. That simple difference is what inspired PDCA Education and Events Manager Kathy Harper to once again donate her hair to help someone in need.

This latest donation began in January 2024, when she committed to a longer growth period with a clear goal in mind. While she has donated hair every few years in the past -- usually around eight inches -- this time she wanted to give more. When the cut was finally made, 11 inches of hair were ready to be donated.

"There wasn't a specific reason at the start," she said. "My hair grows pretty quickly, it's thick, and I know others could use it."

Hair donation programs provide wigs for people who have lost their hair due to cancer treatments, alopecia, and other medical conditions. For recipients, those wigs can mean more than appearance -- they can help restore confidence, dignity, and a sense of normalcy.

As the months passed, the meaning behind the donation deepened. During the growth period, Kathy watched her mother go through cancer treatments and experience hair loss firsthand.

"We joked that I'd give my hair to her and we'd be twins," she shared. "That made the donation feel even more personal."

When it came time to donate, she chose Children With Hair Loss, a nonprofit that provides human hair wigs to children and young adults at no cost. (#CutPassLove)

And in a moment that perfectly reflects her good humor, the actual cut didn't happen in a salon. Instead, PDCA Executive Assistant Marian Phillips used kitchen shears in the PDCA office! A professional haircut soon followed.

As for the future?

"I'll probably give it a couple of years," she said. "And then I'll donate again."

Sometimes making a difference doesn't require a grand gesture -- just patience, generosity, and the willingness to let go.