StudioTen31 Salon in Baldwin was recently open for a very special day of business for breast cancer survivors.

Salon staff celebrated their survival by giving each woman hair styling, a massage and makeup application free of cost.

Salon owner Stephanie Jones wanted to give back to these women after a client came in to shave her head before cancer treatment.

"I just took the scissors and I cried and she cried and we cut it all off,” said Jones. “That is devastating for a woman. Our hair is our crowning glory, whether it's weaved or natural.”

Shortly after, that client lost her battle with the disease.

According to a report by the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, black women are 42 percent more likely to die of breast cancer than white women, and black women are often diagnosed younger and suffer from more aggressive forms of the disease.

Along with the crippling side effects of cancer treatment, hair loss is an unwelcomed reality. Especially in black communities, where hair is often a signifier of both pride and beauty.

Despite the challenges, the survivors said they are just grateful they made it through to encourage others.

"Know that people do care. You do not have to go through this alone,” said Bernice Smith, an educator at Hempstead Public Schools who beat cancer three times.