PCH Volunteers’ Donation Gives Chemo Patients Hope

The Paris Community Hospital (PCH) Volunteers are hoping to minimize hair loss for patients receiving chemotherapy treatments.

Their donation of two cold caps will be used by patients at the Horizon Health Infusion Center. Linda Lane, PCH Volunteer vice president, donated a third cold cap independently as a tribute to her daughter who lost her battle with breast cancer.

“These cold caps are more than just a gift – they represent thoughtfulness, compassion, and unwavering support by our Volunteers,” said Jenna Forster, Infusion Center supervisor. “These caps not only provide comfort, but also a renewed sense of hope during a difficult time for our patients.”

A cold cap is a cooling system that slows hair loss by lowering scalp temperature during chemotherapy. Patients wear a special cap that is connected to an automated device that circulates cooled liquid. The cold temperature temporarily constricts blood vessels in the scalp, limiting the amount of chemotherapy drug that reaches hair follicles.

Kyle Mohon initiated the cold cap program for patients and the partnership between the Infusion Center and PCH Volunteers. She purchased a cold cap months ago to use during her own chemo treatments. Her “manual” cooling cap is similar to an ice pack, lowering scalp temperature like an automated cooling system.

“It worked really well,” she said. “It also helps with headaches.”

Cold caps work best with certain types or doses of chemo, according to the American Cancer Society. Each person responds differently to scalp cooling, and it is not recommended in all instances. Cold caps are designed for adults with solid tumor cancers and cannot be used by patients with blood cancer or severe liver problems.

In addition to the Infusion Center, Horizon Health offers a free cancer support group. The Cancer Friendship Group meets the fourth Tuesday of each month at 10 am at Horizon Health’s main campus. For more information, call 217-466-4862.