East Central Reporter

The Paris Community Hospital (PCH) Volunteers have donated two cold caps to the Horizon Health Infusion Center, aiming to help chemotherapy patients reduce hair loss during treatment. In addition, Linda Lane, vice president of the PCH Volunteers, contributed a third cold cap in memory of her daughter who died from 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.”

Cold caps are cooling systems that lower scalp temperature while patients undergo chemotherapy. The process involves wearing a special cap connected to an automated device that circulates cooled liquid. This cooling constricts blood vessels in the scalp and reduces the amount of chemotherapy drug reaching hair follicles.

Kyle Mohon started the cold cap program at the Infusion Center and facilitated collaboration with PCH Volunteers. She initially purchased a manual cooling cap for her own chemotherapy treatments months ago. Her manual cap works similarly to an ice pack by lowering scalp temperature.

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

According to guidance from the American Cancer Society, cold caps are most effective with certain types or doses of chemotherapy and are not suitable for all patients. They are designed for adults with solid tumor cancers and should not be used by individuals with blood cancer or severe liver problems.

Horizon Health also provides additional support through its Cancer Friendship Group, which meets monthly at its main campus to offer resources and community for those affected by cancer.