Good Deeds: Volunteer helps cancer patients find wigs, support

When Sharon Holcomb had friends battle cancer, she listened to them, especially when they talked about Victory in the Valley, a nonprofit cancer support group.

“They said it was such a worthwhile organization,” Holcomb said. “… It seemed like something I wanted to look into.”

That was 7 1/2 years ago. Since then, Holcomb, a former beautician, has volunteered at the organization’s beauty salon. She fixes wigs and helps patients find scarves and hats.

Her voice breaks as she talks about her experiences.

“It is such a big thing for women to lose their hair and have to go through all of the process,” Holcomb said. “I’ve watched many people walk through the door on edge and fearful about the whole thing.

“We make it light and fun. They find a wig, and I’d say everybody is happy when they leave. I love that part of it.”

Holcomb, 69, also volunteers each month at the Derby Senior Center and visits local children undergoing cancer treatments. She and her husband, Dale, lead the Victory in the Valley Support Group in Derby.

“Cancer is far too prevalent,” Holcomb said. “We have seen a lot of survivors come through.

“I think if you can share and help each other through, it means a lot.”

This story was originally published October 13, 2013 at 1:03 PM with the headline "Good Deeds: Volunteer helps cancer patients find wigs, support."