Andy Mendoza is a barber from Connecticut who didn't know he would also be a necessary system of support, healing, and change for someone in need.
TW: domestic abuse
Instagram | @andyauthentic
Barber Helps Domestic Abuse Survivor Heal With Powerful Haircut
While Andy was getting ready to close up his shop for the day back in December of 2017, he noticed he had one more customer sitting patiently at the end of the salon.
Instagram | @andyauthentic
He told Cafe Mom that he saw a cut on her cheek and jokingly asked if she got into a fight.
However, he didn't expect what she would tell him next.
She revealed that she had been severely beaten by her own boyfriend.
Instagram | @andyauthentic
Among a host of horrendous and brutal attacks, her boyfriend at the time had actually “forcedly shaved a section of hair off her head" before throwing her down the stairs, according to a police report.
After hearing her story, Andy started to do what he does best. He gave his client a powerful haircut to bring back her confidence and help her heal.
Instagram | @andyauthentic
With permission from Chelsea, he used his Instagram page to share her story and spread awareness and support to victims of domestic abuse.
He wrote, "As I cut her hair, we talked and I couldn't help but notice how nice she was, and how much she did NOT deserve what happened to her. No woman ever deserves this! My mother was a victim of abuse, and I remember it vividly! SPEAK UP AND TELL SOMEONE!"
"I definitely wanted the final photo to take focus away from her injuries and showcase her clean slate" he told Cafe Mom.
Instagram | @andyauthentic
"I asked her to raise her chin, and she built up enough strength to smile. That photo is a reflection of her strength."
Chelsea was definitely meant to walk into that salon that day and meet Andy.
If you or someone you know is affected by domestic abuse, reach out to the National Domestic Abuse Hotline for help.
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