Laura Berg, Oregon State softball head coach, shares personal health diagnosis and urges support for children
Berg explains her diagnosis
Berg shared her health update in a social media post published Tuesday. Alopecia areata occurs when the immune system attacks hair follicles, and it can affect people of any age.
She noted that the condition varies from person to person and can be unpredictable, with hair loss and regrowth at different times. Berg said losing her hair has been devastating, though she is grateful the condition is not life-threatening.
Berg also described possible emotional effects, including changes to confidence, self-esteem and well-being. She called for understanding and compassion for people navigating the diagnosis.
Turning experience into support
She hopes a donation can offer a child comfort, confidence and a sense of normalcy. Berg said she wants to make something positive and meaningful for someone else despite the unexpected challenges of her diagnosis.
Messages from the softball community
Former teammate Monica Abbott, a recent USA Softball Hall of Fame inductee, sent Berg well wishes on Instagram. Abbott said her friends were thinking of her and expressed support regardless of how much hair she has.
Messages of support also came from people connected with Fresno State, where Berg was a standout athlete. One post described her as a Bulldog legend and sent her love and prayers.
Key points
- Berg says she was diagnosed with alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition that can cause hair loss.
- She described the diagnosis as emotionally difficult and unpredictable.
- Berg is encouraging eligible donors to give hair to Wigs for Kids.
- Former teammates and others in the softball community sent messages of support.