Abby Assistio reads about life, love and dieting

 Singer, songwriter, and TV host Abby Asistio is the newest brand ambassador of Novuhair Topical Scalp Lotion, nature’s answer to hair loss.

Abby is one of the new breed of young artists to join Manila Genesis Entertainment & Management Inc. She recently released her debut, self-penned single titled Beautiful, which was arranged by Jay Durias of South Border. The single’s music video is directed by Joaquin Valdes and is currently enjoying massive airplay on Myx as well as on Manila’s hottest radio stations.

As early as the age of four, Abby knew what it was like to be without hair. Diagnosed with alopecia areata, a condition that causes patches of hair loss around the body, Abby has lived through the entire process of experiencing hair fall: losing it little by little, and then deciding to shave it all completely last year. She has even tried other hair loss remedies as she lived in the US for several years, including chemical-based products that have resulted in negative side effects.

One day, Abby decided there was no more hiding. In September 2012, she took her stand and embraced her baldness.  Together with good friend Jing Monis, she shaved her head and began with an Alopecia Areata Awareness Month Instagram campaign in which she invited friends and family to pose with a double “A” sign using their fingers. The campaign grew to success and to date has over a thousand photos. On Sept. 25 of the same year, she did a coming out concert where she performed bald in public for the very first time.

This year she was highlighted as one of the top 41 best vocalists on The Voice of The Philippines as one of its chosen contestants out of thousands of aspirants. Also a finalist of the Dove Real Beauty Campaign and one of Meg magazine’s 30 Young Achievers, Abby has made it one of her life goals to be a voice for those with alopecia areata. “I am honored to be chosen as brand ambassador to Novuhair. This new platform will help me to continue my advocacy to share my music and life story,” says Abby.

Since using Novuhair, Abby has experienced remarkable results. Visible signs of hair growth appeared within five months of use — and this is after years of baldness caused by alopecia areata. “The strands of my hair are thicker and more healthy-looking. My scalp is clearly nourished and invigorated. When it comes to hair growth, nature is on my side with Novuhair,” says Abby.

Abby shares with us a rundown of some of her favorite books:

1) The Bible — Reading the Bible is one major way I connect to God and allow His presence into my life. I could always rely on His truth and promises to speak wisdom and encouragement that I may live according to His will.

2) Captivating by John and Stasi Eldredge  — This book redefined my concept of beauty. Basically, it speaks of a beauty that brings life, comes from within and emanates from the grandiose creation of God. It talks about the three core desires of every woman: to be romanced, to play an irreplaceable role in a great adventure, and to unveil her beauty. 

3) Beyond Talent by John C. Maxwell —  Each of us are gifted with special/specific talents. I like how Maxwell asserts that talent is great but is never enough and is merely a starting point. If one yearns to be successful, there are certain values, disciplines and principles that one must live by.

4) I Kissed Dating Goodbye by Joshua Harris  —  Although I didn’t actually kiss dating goodbye, I believe in what this book stands for: Love and relationships should always be based on a long term, selfless desire to honor the other person involved. It also encouraged me to make the most out of my singlehood.

5) The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren  — I began to have a clearer, firmer grasp of what I wanted to be by learning more about God’s will and purpose for my life. Based on the Word, my talents, history, dreams and affirmations from people, I’m certain that I was meant to be an artist and write and sing songs for His glory.

6) The Southbeach Diet  by Dr. Arthur Agatson  — I started doing the Southbeach Diet four years ago and have been using its low-carb/low-fat principles to live healthier and lose weight when I have to. I love diets that encourage me to eat a lot.This diet renewed my love for vegetables and cooking!

7) 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader by John C. Maxwell  — Since I was young I have always aspired to become a leader. I believed I somehow had the skills and abilities to make a mark in society and make this world a better place. Now, with my music and advocacy, I try to live by the values that this book has instilled in me.

8) Boy Meets Girl  by Joshua Harris  — I have always been a hopeless romantic. I’ve never had a boyfriend and this book encouraged me that there is a special, exceptional man out there meant just for me. It also taught me alot about focusing more on becoming the right partner than dwelling on looking for one.

9) In the Grip of Grace by Max Lucado  — It’s great that whenever I have struggles, mess up, make mistakes and experience weakness, I know that I could always rely on God’s grace to catch me. This book reminded me that I could never completely enjoy life and surpass its trials without depending on His supernatural, unmerited favor.

10) He’s Just Not That Into You by Greg Behrendt & Liz Tuccillo  —  I’d like to consider myself a smart woman, but if there’s one thing that brings out the stupidity in me, it would always concern matters of the heart. (Laughs) I’ve had a couple of regrets and misjudgements when it comes to men. This book (and the movie) served as a huge wake up call for me to stop wasting time seeing and falling for guys who just aren’t interested.

The Reading Club recommends The Sexy Chef Cookbook by Rachel Alejandro and Chef Barni Alejandro Rennebeck available in all National Book Stores and Powerbooks branches at only P345.

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Your questions and suggestions are welcome at gr.rodis@gmail.com.