I have had Alopecia Universalis for the last couple of years and to start with it devastated me.

I didn't recognise myself anymore, with no eyebrows, eyelashes or hair anywhere on my body I felt stripped of my identity and very alone.

The turning point came when I found Alopecia UK and met other people experiencing the same thing, I was no-longer alone and I felt supported. I then decided to get involved with the Charity as a volunteer and I haven't looked back.

The amazing work that Alopecia UK does connecting people to each other, sharing support and advice. Organising awareness campaigns and providing opportunities to help gain confidence and have fun helps us realise that we can fully participate in life and fit in even if we do look a bit different.

With your help we can improve the lives of children and adults with this condition.

Elaine Cottrell