HELOISE Society maintains wig rooms for cancer patients

Dear Heloise: Here's a suggestion to readers facing chemo-therapy and possible hair loss: The American Cancer Society maintains wig rooms in most areas of the country where people can go to borrow, for the duration of their need, a wig that meets their purposes (so they don't have to purchase wigs). A helpful volunteer assists the cancer patient in a private room where a wide selection of wigs is available. Patients may try on, using a wig liner, as many of the freshly cleaned wigs as desired. When finished with the wig, they simply return it.
I had bought a wig that I didn't end up liking with my coloring before learning about this, and later donated it when I returned the borrowed wig. I also donated wig liners that I had bought. All such donations are appreciated and help build inventory. People disposing of wigs they no longer use should consider donating them. Jeanne Noble, breast cancer survivor, Lebanon, Va.
Jeanne, when one of my assistants called to check with you about printing your full name, you said that if your experience can help others, you will be happy. Well, thank you for telling us about this wonderful service and reminding my readers to donate no-longer-used wigs. Just call an American Cancer Society location for donation instructions. Heloise
Dear Heloise: When I get a new cell phone, I always write the brand and model number on the charger with a permanent-marker pen. Cell-phone chargers can have different voltages and currents, and marking the charger prevents me from accidentally plugging it into the wrong cell phone.
A bonus is that if I find that an older charger has the same output voltage, current and connector as my cell phone, I can store it in my suitcase, ready for travel. Joe Swelnis, Richmond, Ky.
Dear Heloise: Recently, I bought a purse. I know that when you buy a purse, the cashier empties the purse to make sure there is nothing else in it besides the filler paper. I have never thought to check the inside of a purse myself. Boy, did I feel awful when the cashier pulled out two cards that earrings come attached to, but no earrings. It just ruined my whole day to think that someone would wonder if I would steal. I am just thankful that the girl believed me, but I couldn't have blamed her if she hadn't.
From now on, I will check the inside of the purse before I get to the register. Jeanette Wey, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Dear Heloise: When my four granddaughters come to stay for three weeks in the summer, they arrive with different bands for their ponytails, braids, etc. I solved the "it's mine -- no, mine" problem by placing each individual's bands on a big, oversized safety pin. With a dab of different nail color on the head of each pin, the girls can easily tell which one is theirs. Sharand East, San Marco, Calif.
XSend a great hint to: Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000, Fax: (210) HELOISE or E-mail: Heloise@Heloise.com.
King Features Syndicate