Barbie goes bald for a good cause

WHAT'S HAPPENING

After parent-inspired Facebook group "Beautiful and Bald Barbie! Let's see if we can get it made" scored thousands of likes within hours, toymaker Mattel instantly responded by announcing the creation of a bald friend of Barbie (Good.is, 18 April 2012).

The doll will be exclusively distributed to children's hospitals in 2013 and will come fully equipped with hats, scarves and other fashion accessories, giving young girls the traditional Barbie-playing experience.

Beckie Sypin, co-founder of the cause and mother of a 12-year-old daughter who lost her hair after chemotherapy, hopes that Barbie's new friend will help children with cancer and others who have lost their hair cope with their conditions.

WHAT THIS MEANS TO BUSINESS
A cause that plays up beauty and self-worth through a much-loved and familiar toy gives Gen We a playful way to cope with their own or a loved one's illness.
Listening to and responding to a viral Facebook campaign goes a long way for brand loyalty.

RESOURCES
Mattel
Facebook: Beautiful and Bald Barbie! Let's see if we can get it made