As the holiday season approaches, stories of generosity and compassion remind us how simple acts of kindness can have a profound impact. For Jasmine Thum, M.D., a neurosurgeon at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Neurosurgery, that impact comes in the form of a meaningful gesture: donating her hair to cancer patients.

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, one in eight women in the United States will face this diagnosis in her lifetime. "Unfortunately, because the lifetime rate of breast cancer is so high, most people will likely know someone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. My story is no different," shared Thum.

Carrying on the tradition

Thum’s inspiration for giving came from her mother, who first made “the chop” in honor of a family member battling breast cancer. When her mother explained that she had donated her hair to support those facing cancer diagnoses, Thum decided to follow in her footsteps. “I realized I, too, could make a difference, in my own small way, one haircut at a time,” said Thum.

Over the years, Thum has donated her hair multiple times, knowing that it takes about 20 ponytails to make a single wig. For Thum, each haircut represents a contribution to a larger cause and a greater gesture of empathy.

“The first time I donated, I did it myself,” said Thum. “My hair was very long, so I just pulled it back into a low ponytail, took the scissors and cut above the hair tie in my fresh-out-of-the-shower hair.”

“I didn’t know how it would look, but that wasn’t really what I was thinking about. I was just proud to have done it, thinking about how it would go towards better use on the head of someone else—someone who could actually use it.”Jasmine Thum, M.D., and Kizzie Warren

This year, Thum took “the chop” even shorter than in years past, enlisting the help of Kizzie Warren from The Collective, a local Birmingham salon.

A surgeon's perspective

Thum’s connection to this cause goes beyond personal experience. As a physician, she has witnessed the life-altering effects—both physical and emotional—of cancer.

“My experience with breast cancer has helped me remember that medical diagnoses do not stay within the four walls of the hospital or clinic,” she said. "I know that I am often meeting patients during one of the most challenging periods of their lives.”

Urging women to prioritize their health, Thum emphasizes the importance of regular screenings and proactive health measures, especially for women at elevated risk.

For women in certain professions, like medicine, the stakes can be higher than average. Several studies show that female surgeons face a nearly threefold higher risk of breast cancer due to occupational exposures, like ionizing radiation and irregular shift work.

A holiday reminder

As her hair grows back every few years, Thum reflects on her decision to donate. Her own actions remind her of the resilience of patients and the profound difference a community of support can make.

“For patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer, there’s so much they have to grapple with. A wig is just one less thing they have to worry about,” said Thum. “It allows them to focus on fighting the disease, instead of fighting away glances in the supermarket.”

By sharing her story, Thum hopes to inspire others to find their own ways to take action. From donating hair to volunteering or advocating for cancer awareness, she believes everyone can make an impact.

“This is about more than just cutting hair,” she said. “It’s about bringing hope where there’s fear, and strength where there’s weakness.”

Beyond the clinic

Thum’s efforts highlight the many ways medical professionals can impact lives, both inside and outside the clinic. By donating her hair and sharing her story, she not only uplifts her patients but also fosters a culture of empathy and support that resonates far beyond her immediate community.

“I realized long ago that even the smallest contributions can add up to make a big difference,” said Thum. “We can give patients a reason to smile and a reminder that they are not alone in their journey.”

To document this year's haircut, Thum filmed her experience and created a video. Click here to watch.