I am a survivor of inflammatory breast cancer. During my treatment, I was bald for over a year. Everything about my hats - style, comfort, full coverage, versatility, and affordability is a result of my own experience with baldness.

A chemo hat serves many purposes. First, it must provide complete coverage of the scalp, including areas we may not initially consider scalp, until our hair is gone, that is. Once bald, it becomes instantly clear that care must be taken to cover areas where sideburns once were, areas above the ear, and in the back of our heads, just above the neck. Unlike “regular” hats, chemo hats are designed to ensure complete coverage of these areas.

Chemo hats must fit securely enough to provide the wearer with a sense of security. We wants hats that stay on when we bend down, move our heads quickly, or find ourselves in the middle of a gusty wind.

Chemo hats MUST be comfortable. They should be made from soft fabrics - flannel, soft knits, fleece, cotton, and terry. We should be able to put them on without a degree from a fashion institute. No scarves that must be folded or pleated or tucked or braided, please! These intricate head coverings may work well for a few women, but most of us want a hat we can put on quickly and go about our business.

Chemo hats should be AFFORDABLE! Many of us have to take a leave of absence from work in order to receive treatment. We may be going from a two income family to a one income family. Worse, we might be the sole provider in the family.

CJ Hats is a true family affair. My daughter and son-in-law, Jill and Jeremy have provided the working capital we've needed. My husband, Ron, is in charge of all shipping duties. My daughter, Christine, joined the business several years ago. She brought a fantastic sense of color and style, and her sewing expertise, to our line. Her contributions have been especially appealing to our younger customers.