Challenging a 'throw-away culture' in cancer care

A woman who runs a cancer charity which collects headscarves and chemotherapy wear has said she wants to make the items accessible for everyone.

Jo Knight, from Dover, set up Preloved-Reloved five years ago following her own diagnosis of breast cancer in 2017.

After her diagnosis, Knight had a double mastectomy and chemotherapy, which left her with persistent chemotherapy induced alopecia (CIA).

Knight said for many the thought of losing their hair can leave them "absolutely devastated and quite traumatised."

She said that because "we live in such a 'throw-away' culture", lots of cancer accessories, such as scalp cooling caps, are inaccessible due to their cost.

CIA occurs as chemotherapy drugs target all rapidly dividing cells, including hair follicles.

For many patients, hair loss is temporary but it can still have a lasting impact.

Knight said for many people the thought of losing their hair can leave them "absolutely devastated and quite traumatised".

"It's really important to give somebody the confidence to be able to carry on as normally as you can when going through treatment," she said.

Knight packs the accessories from her Dover warehouse and sends them out to patients across the country.

Patients only have to contribute towards postage.

Knight also shares her journey on social media, where she has built up a following of over 8,000 people.

If you have been affected by any of the issues in this article, you will find information and support on the BBC Action Line pages.

Follow BBC Kent on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.