'Look Good, Feel Better Every Day' program coming to Johnston Senior Center

Steve Mallane is well known as the longtime owner and operator of Sheik Hair Designs located on intersection of Atwood and Simmonsville avenues in Johnston.

But what some people don’t know about Mallane, who doubles as Johnston’s town sergeant, is that the “Sheik” – as he’s affectionately been known for years – has made many extraordinary contributions to people and organizations that provide services for those battling cancer.

“He’s one of Rhode Island’s best known volunteers when it comes to helping people who have been stricken with cancer,” said Dennis Quaranta, who chairs the award-winning non-profit known as the Johnston Memorial Cancer Events (JMCE). “And that’s not just because he sells hair extensions and wigs.”

“Has a unique way of helping people look good and feel better about themselves if they’re losing their hair because of various forms of cancer treatments,” Elisa Madore said.

On Monday, Nov. 7, Mallane will set up shop inside the Johnston Senior Center and team up with Madore to hold a training class that will be geared toward helping women with cancer.

“It’s called ‘Look Good, Feel Better Every Day,’” said Madore, who is a community executive in the American Cancer Society’s New England division that’s based in Warwick. “This program helps women improve their appearance and self-image by teaching them hands-on beauty techniques. It offers a way to manage the appearance-related side effects of chemotherapy and radiation treatments.”

The Nov. 7 class is being offered free to people who are undergoing, about to undergo, or recently completed cancer treatment. It will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the senior center.

“The training class or workshop,” Mallane said, “will help cancer patents regain their confidence and self-esteem, which are often affected by the physical changes caused by cancer treatments. We hope to have a huge turnout of people who’d like to volunteer to help people look good and feel better during their battle with cancer.”

Mallane said volunteers may be licensed, experienced beauty professionals or general volunteers.

“Volunteers for this program are in demand,” Mallane said. “Professional cosmetologists, hairstylists … even nail technicians are invited to attend the training class. It’s a small commitment of only three hours that can help women during a most difficult time of their lives.”

The Nov. 7 training class-workshop will include a detailed description and demonstration of the 12-step skin care and makeup program; instruction on options relating to hair loss, including wigs (types/care), turbans, and scarves; nail care; and helpful suggestions on clothing.

For more information, call Mallane at 401-943-2346.