Five years ago, in early 2021, Kelly Finney and her family shared a special moment with their friends Paul and Lauren and their children at Martelle’s Feed House, a favorite spot full of cherished memories. That visit, however, was different. Paul and Lauren’s daughter, GG, had been diagnosed with leukemia the summer before and had lost her hair due to treatment.
During the meal, someone mistakenly called GG a boy. GG’s smile quickly shifted to a frown, and her confidence and sense of self was shaken in that moment. Watching GG’s heartache, Kelly and her husband Franklin were moved. They wanted to ensure no child every felt that sadness. Conversations with her parents revealed an organization dedicated to helping children like GG feel confident again: Wigs For Kids. That very night, Franklin made a bold decision: He would not cut his hair again until it was long enough to donate to Wigs For Kids, to help a child experiencing medical hair loss feel joy and confidence. Over the years, Franklin’s commitment grew into 6 ponytail donations, each between 14”–18”.
Fast forward to 2025, GG is in remission, and her hair has grown back. Franklin and Kelly had the pleasure of meeting her to mail off a very important package: her honorary princess locks.
The story doesn’t end here. In the comments of the post celebrating the momentous donation day, Randi, a childhood friend and mother to Addison, reached out. Her 9-year-old daughter had developed Alopecia Areata and lost all her hair. Randi was unsure where to turn for help, when Kelly recommended the family apply to the Wigs For Kids Recipient Program.
Addison, a bright, horse-loving, dance-obsessed girl fueled by her Faith, longed for a wig. Inspired by Franklin’s years of dedication, Kelly and Franklin quickly mobilized to help Addison. They launched a fundraiser, and through the generosity of friends, family, and their community, they were able to raise the full amount needed to cover Addison’s wig!
Thanks to Wigs For Kids, Addison’s new wig has arrived, ready to give her the confidence and joy every child deserves. Boone Yandle, inspired by Kelly’s story, also began growing his hair for Wigs For Kids, proving how one act of love can ripple into countless lives. Franklin, Kelly, Randi, Boone, and all the supporters remind us that sometimes a small decision like letting hair grow out can spark miracles, bring hope, and transform lives.
Inspired by this story? Start growing your hair today and join the team of donors who help kids feel like themselves again.
If you are a stylist interested in helping our children, please click here for more information.
If you are interested in donating your hair, please click here for more information.
For recipient stories, please click here.
For more ways to support Wigs For Kids, please click here.
At Wigs For Kids, we are continually inspired by the compassion and creativity of the communities who support our mission. This spring, Connect Academy in Carol Stream, Illinois, turned one powerful act of kindness into a schoolwide movement, raising critical funds, donating hair, and teaching students what it truly means to give back. A Story […]
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