Glow for a Cause to raise Alopecia Areata awareness

Crane will light up in bright colors on Saturday, Sept. 26, as community members gather for Glow for a Cause, a community glow walk raising awareness for Alopecia Areata and supporting those living with hair loss.

The event was organized by the Yardley family, who have a personal connection to the cause. Their daughter lives with Alopecia Areata, inspiring the family to bring the community together to increase understanding of the condition and show support for others experiencing hair loss.

Crane family organizes fundraiser for alopecia (Photo courtesy of the Yardley family)

The event will begin at 7:30 p.m. at the official location behind Crane School, located at 209 Pirate Lane. This year’s event will be a walking-only event, with people of all ages welcome to participate.

Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune condition in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, causing hair to fall out. It can cause hair loss on the scalp, face or other areas of the body. The condition can affect people of any age and can vary from person to person. Some people experience small patches of hair loss, while others may experience more extensive hair loss.

For the Yardley family, the event is an opportunity to turn their personal experience into a message of awareness, encouragement and support. “We want people to understand that Alopecia is more than hair loss,” is the message behind events such as Glow for a Cause, which seek to bring greater awareness to the physical and emotional challenges that can accompany the condition.

Glow for a Cause will raise funds for the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF), which supports research, education and resources for people affected by Alopecia Areata.

Along with the glow walk, attendees can enjoy food and drinks from local vendors. Daily Bread & Brew and Day Made Bakery are listed as participating vendors, with an additional food truck to be announced.

T-shirts are also available for $15 as an optional way for participants to show their support. Donations can also be made to benefit NAAF, with organizers noting that every donation helps support research, resources and hope for those living with Alopecia Areata.

The Yardley family invites community members to bring their friends and family, enjoy an evening together and help shine a light on Alopecia Areata.

Glow for a Cause will take place Saturday, Sept. 26, beginning at 7:30 p.m. behind Crane School at 209 Pirate Lane. All ages are welcome, and the event is a walking-only event.