June 2026
For many people undergoing chemotherapy, hair loss can be one of the most emotional parts of treatment. Today, patients at our infusion clinics have access to cold capping therapy — an option that supports both physical and emotional well-being.
Funded by our foundation, this innovative treatment helps minimize hair loss and gives patients more choice in how they experience care.
Supporting dignity and independence
Cold capping works by cooling the scalp before, during and after chemotherapy to reduce blood flow to hair follicles — limiting how much medication reaches them.
For many patients, this means less hair loss and a greater sense of control during treatment.
"It's an amazing thing that our foundation has funded for us to be able to provide for patients so that they have the option to keep their hair going through chemotherapy and maintain that independence and dignity during that time," says Sarah Gauntt, RN, director of infusion nursing at Providence Portland Medical Center.
A meaningful commitment during care
Cold capping is a time commitment, with patients wearing the cap throughout their infusion.
While it requires dedication, many patients say the ability to maintain a sense of normalcy is deeply meaningful.
"It's a commitment," Sarah says.
"Patients wear it throughout their infusion treatments and then for about two hours afterwards to really cool the scalp and minimize blood flow, which means less medication gets to the scalp and those hair follicles.”
Expanding access across the state
With support from our foundation, cold capping is now available at infusion clinics across the state, bringing this option closer to home for more patients.
This investment reflects our commitment to whole-person care, supporting confidence, dignity and quality of life throughout treatment.
