For years, Flushing resident Irene Digenakis has been the “plain Jane” of her family.
“I’ve had the same hair color (brown) since I met my husband in 1989!” Digenakis wrote in to The Queens Courier Makeover Contest.
Like many women, Digenakis put the needs of her family - 12-year-old son, George, and husband Manny - before her own.
“I also suffered from depression for many years and have been through many hardships and struggles for most of my adult life. I think what I need is a pick-me-up to lift my spirits,” she wrote.
On Wednesday, February 1, Digenakis received a call informing her that the request was answered.
“Of course, I was jumping for joy with my son,” Digenakis said before beginning her full makeover at Christie & Co. Salon
“I’m very grateful to the people here at the salon that made this all possible for me,” Digenakis said after her transformation was complete. “What we need in this world is more love and for people to be kind to one another as they have been to me here today.”
Digenakis said the new look was the perfect way to celebrate a milestone birthday - she will turn 40 in June.
“I know that I am a very compassionate, beautiful both inside and out,” she had written in her letter.
“Now, I feel great,” she said afterwards. “I love the makeover.”
