Shannen Doherty, Who’s Battling Breast Cancer, Shaved Her Head in a Series of Photos
Actress Shannen Doherty got as real as it gets on Instagram. (All photos courtesy Instagram/theshando)
Shannen Doherty took to Instagram last night to share the poignant moment when she cut her hair and then shaved her head. The 45-year-old actress and author, known to millions as Brenda Walsh from the iconic show Beverly Hills, 90210, was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2015 and hours ago she chronicled the six-step process of cutting her hair amid her battle with this disease.
And her followers couldn’t be more supportive, sending thousands of positive messages.
@82angels010208 Amazing pic! May God guide you through this and may His healing hands heal you
@christinablaabjerg.dk Remember only to spend time with people who gives you positive energy and love… So you can focus on getting well very soon ❤ much love xxx
@eleonoraepoi I wanted to look like you when I was younger I still want to look like you!!!
@bebajenni You are an inspiration!!!!
@joannafrancis70 Rocking it as normal
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Whether Doherty realized it or not, her decision to allow the public to join her on this emotional journey can be beneficial to countless others.
“Celebrities are considered role models, and people want to be like them,” Stacy Kaiser, psychotherapist and author of How to Be a Grown Up: The 10 Secret Skills Everyone Needs to Know, tells Yahoo Beauty. “That is an across-the-board fact. People want to do what celebrities do because it makes them feel elevated or on a more special level, whether it’s carrying a handbag, eating at a restaurant, or doing something for cancer.”
Kaiser further explains that Doherty’s public act is considered one of empowerment among those who have had — or who are going through —cancer treatments. “It’s taking some charge of the situation instead of just letting your hair fall out,” she states. “So the fact that she is doing something empowering elevates it to an even higher level.”
Related: Thandie Newton Shares Selfie While Breastfeeding Son
Also, the general public tends to pay attention when an influencer has something relevant to announce. “Shannen is giving ideas to people,” continues Kaiser. “They are a lot of people who think they have to be a victim of their hair falling out. So she’s educating others in the process who are either dealing with cancer or having a friend or family member living with cancer.”
And there’s the overall awareness factor.
“These postings not only make you aware that she is dealing with cancer — it reminds you about cancer,” says Kaiser. “It makes you think about the disease; it makes you think about the impact it has on people. And perhaps for some, it will inspire them to make a donation, volunteer for a cancer organization, or help a friend who is dealing with cancer. It also serves as reminder that this is a real disease and that anyone can have it. It doesn’t matter who you are, how much money you have, or how famous you are.”
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