Limerick, Ireland

Olivia Humphreys presents a mobile scalp-cooling device for chemo patients more that can easily be carried and used on the go as well as costing less to make than hospital models. 

The Athena Helmet is a scalp-cooling device aimed at helping chemotherapy patients reduce hair loss.

Hair preservation during cancer treatment is essential for many patients’ sense of identity and emotional well-being.

“I saw how upsetting and intense chemotherapy treatment was, and then on top of that having to deal with things like anxiety, hair loss, as well as commuting and having to pack things, ” states Olivia Humphreys.

Traditional scalp cooling methods, though effective, often come with accessibility, comfort, and effectiveness challenges.

Athena addresses these issues with a thermoelectric, portable, patient-operated headpiece designed for easy use, increasing the accessibility and comfort of scalp cooling therapy.

At full power, it can run for three-and-a-half hours, allowing patients to commute to and from the hospital, and move around during infusion, such as for bathroom visits.

The device’s approach combines practicality with a personal and manageable solution, designed to be easy to transport and adaptable for users outside of clinical settings.

Project: Athena Helmet
Designers: Olivia Humphreys
Photographs: Courtesy of James Dyson Foundation