#Awareness #Volunteer Make Medical Wigs Affordable Virtual Event Monday, February 23 – Thursday, December 31, 2026 Ask your local legislators for support of H.R. 7546 and S. 3872 to provide coverage for cranial prostheses (medical wigs) as durable medical equipment under the Medicare program. Alopecia areata is a common autoimmune skin disease which causes unpredictable, often sudden and severe hair loss, on the scalp and body. Frequently dismissed as a cosmetic condition, alopecia areata is a deeply traumatic experience, resulting in emotional and economic pain and social isolation, especially for children. It is not just hair. Many individuals living with alopecia areata utilize cranial prostheses to camouflage their hair loss, restore well-being, and support their mental health. Unfortunately, these prostheses can come with a significant out-of-pocket cost for Americans with low or fixed incomes. This is especially burdensome for children, who often require cranial prostheses for attending school. Currently, the Social Security Act determines which products are considered “durable medical equipment” for the purposes of Medicare coverage. It includes crutches, oxygen tanks, and prosthetics. However, the definition of a “prosthetic” does not specifically include cranial prostheses, which can lead to coverage challenges. Private insurance and other payers often base their coverage policies and standards on Medicare. Take action to show your support for the 7 million Americans living with alopecia areata. Click the button below to send emails to your legislators to co-sponsor H.R. 7546 and S. 3872.
#Support Groups Dallas/Fort Worth, TX In-Person Support Meeting Dallas, Texas Thursday, April 16, 2026 | 6:00 PM, CDT
#Support Groups Maine/New England – Virtual Support Meeting Virtual Event Monday, April 20, 2026 | 6:15 PM, EDT This support group is an ideal place to come and talk with others about living with alopecia areata. It is the place to gain knowledge from those who have had years of experience. With time comes the ability to deal and cope with your own hair loss or that of a loved one. We are very fortunate that so many are willing to bring to the meetings their wisdom and advice to share in a direct but compassionate manner that reflects understanding and concern. The support group experience has its rewards for all who attend. Upcoming Virtual Meetings: June 15, 2026 August 17, 2026 October 19, 2026
#Support Groups Teen Girls, Virtual Support Meeting Virtual Event Monday, April 20, 2026 | 7:00 PM, EDT *Note: If this is your first time attending, you must RSVP and fill out a form prior to attending. Your Host: Mary Mary has lived with alopecia for over 25 years. She’s a psychotherapist experienced working with children, adults and families. This support group is aimed at providing those living with alopecia emotional support, material resources, and a place to share their experiences. This virtual support group is open to adults living with alopecia, children and their caregivers. 2026 Meeting Schedule: May 18, 2026 June 15, 2026 July 20, 2026 August 17, 2026 September 21, 2026 October 19, 2026 November 16, 2026 December 21, 2026
#Webinars Upcoming Webinar Virtual Event Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | 4:00 PM, PDT The Power of Peer Support: Teens with Alopecia Areata Supporting Each Other WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2026 4PM PDT/ 6PM CDT/ 7PM EDT As we approach Mental Health Awareness Month in May, join us for a conversation about the role of connection and peer support in the lives of teens with alopecia areata. Led by behavioral health therapist, Mary Wills, MSW, LISW-S, this webinar will explore how friendships and shared experiences can support emotional well-being during adolescence. We’ll discuss how teens and young adults can support one another, build meaningful connections, and create spaces where they feel understood. Participants will also learn how peer support can strengthen resilience, the importance of healthy boundaries, and when it may be helpful to seek additional support. This webinar is intended for teens, young adults, and the adults who support them.
#Support Groups Flagstaff, AZ In-Person Support Meeting Flagstaff, Arizona Monday, April 27, 2026 | 6:00 PM, MST This support group is an ideal place to come and talk with others about living with alopecia areata. It is the place to gain knowledge from those who have had years of experience. With time comes the ability to deal and cope with your own hair loss or that of a loved one. We are very fortunate that so many are willing to bring to the meetings their wisdom and advice to share in a direct but compassionate manner that reflects understanding and concern. The support group experience has its rewards for all who attend.
#Support Groups Sterling Heights, MI In-Person Support Meeting Sterling Heights, Michigan Thursday, May 14, 2026 | 7:00 PM, EDT 2026 Support Meeting Dates: July 14 September 16 November 17 This support group is an ideal place to come and talk with others about living with alopecia areata. It is the place to gain knowledge from those who have had years of experience. With time comes the ability to deal and cope with your own hair loss or that of a loved one. We are very fortunate that so many are willing to bring to the meetings their wisdom and advice to share in a direct but compassionate manner that reflects understanding and concern. The support group experience has its rewards for all who attend.
#Support Groups Cleveland, OH Virtual Support Meeting Virtual Event Monday, May 18, 2026 | 7:00 PM, EDT Mary has lived with alopecia for over 25 years. She’s a psychotherapist experienced working with children, adults and families. This support group is aimed at providing those living with alopecia emotional support, material resources, and a place to share their experiences. This virtual support group is open to adults living with alopecia, children and their caregivers. 2026 Meeting Dates: July 20, 2026 September 15, 2026 November 17, 2026
#Support Groups Teen Girls, Virtual Support Meeting Virtual Event Monday, May 18, 2026 | 7:00 PM, EDT *Note: If this is your first time attending, you must RSVP and fill out a form prior to attending. Your Host: Mary Mary has lived with alopecia for over 25 years. She’s a psychotherapist experienced working with children, adults and families. This support group is aimed at providing those living with alopecia emotional support, material resources, and a place to share their experiences. This virtual support group is open to adults living with alopecia, children and their caregivers. 2026 Meeting Schedule: June 15, 2026 July 20, 2026 August 17, 2026 September 21, 2026 October 19, 2026 November 16, 2026 December 21, 2026
#Support Groups Colorado Virtual Children’s Support Meeting Virtual Event Tuesday, June 2, 2026 | 7:00 PM, MDT This support group is an ideal place to come and talk with other parents who have children living with alopecia areata. It is the place to gain knowledge from those with experience. With time comes the ability to deal and cope with hair loss of a loved one. We are very fortunate that so families are willing to bring to the meetings their wisdom and advice to share in a direct but compassionate manner that reflects understanding and concern. The support group experience has its rewards for all adult family members who attend. 2026 Virtual Support Meeting Schedule: Wednesday, September 2nd at 7:00pm MST Thursday, December 3rd at 7:00pm MST