That wouldn't work for every business, but Reflections Boutique, which offers wigs and head coverings at no charge to women undergoing cancer treatment, is celebrating its fifth anniversary this month.

At this tiny enterprise, success is measured not in dollars earned, but in the heartfelt messages of thanks left by hundreds of satisfied "customers."

Located at the Harold Leever Regional Cancer Center, Reflections Boutique was founded in November, 2004, by Mr. Carragan and his wife, Dr. Clare Ventre.

Following Dr. Ventre's own recovery from breast cancer, the couple had a wish to help other women who were struggling with hair loss due to chemotherapy treatment.

The exact number of women served is unknown, but according to Mr. Carragan's estimate, the boutique has given away more than 2,000 wigs and double that number of hats, turbans and other head coverings to women treated at the Leever Center and elsewhere.

"We don't ask for names," he told Voices. "They're welcome to sign our guest book if they're so inclined; some do, some don't. But there are no restrictions. Our door is open, regardless of where they're having treatment."

Manned each weekday by volunteers from the American Cancer Society, the little boutique displays about 50 wigs at a time in glass showcases, with another 200 or so available on request.

Wigs are purchased new from area suppliers. Hats and turbans are made locally by In the Making, a Waterbury agency that teaches job skills to previously unemployable women.

The original concept was a sort of "lending library" of wigs and other head coverings, where women could donate items they no longer needed; other women could use them for awhile, then return them to the boutique to be lent out again.

"Originally, we hoped that 75 percent of the stuff would be returned," said Mr. Carragan, "but we're finding only about 25 percent is coming back - and that's okay.

"Everything is absolutely free of charge," he said. "That's where we're unique in the U.S. There are lots of stores and boutiques attached to cancer centers where wigs are discounted, but we sell them for nothing."

Initially established through a family foundation, Reflections Boutique relies on donations to stay open and available to the women who need it.

"Our long-term goal is to build up a sufficient endowment so the boutique can run in perpetuity," Mr. Carragan said.

Fundraisers have been well supported. A wine tasting in 2006 at Carole Winer's Country Loft Antiques in Woodbury brought in about $26,000; a similar event in 2008 at the same location raised $36,000.

"Carole Winer is the most giving, generous person we've come across," Mr. Carragan said.

But fundraisers don't have to be big to be beneficial, he added, indicating that bake sales conducted by scouts or church groups would be most appreciated.

"We're happy for people to support the boutique in any way," he said. "We're looking for groups to knit hats and prayer shawls. We're looking for hairdressers who can take wigs that have been returned to sanitize and restyle them, or be available to help fit someone by appointment.

"We'd love to be adopted by a civic club," he said. "That's long been a dream - for a woman's club, the Soroptimists or something similar to take us on as one of their charitable ventures."

The mood was decidedly festive Wednesday evening, November 18, when the Carragans hosted a "birthday party" for the boutique at the Leever Center.

Featuring wine, hors d'oeuvres and entertainment by Waterbury's up-and-coming jazz favorite Vinnie Ingala, the party was offered as a thank-you to donors, volunteers and others who've supported the boutique over the past five years.

Mr. Carragan thanked all those patrons and sponsors who have kept the boutique "going strong," adding a special hats-off to the American Cancer Society volunteers who help women with selection.

Responding to what was apparently an oft-heard request, Dr. Ventre pledged to offer "more red-headed wigs!"

Debbie Parkinson, operations manager at the Leever Center, invited those attending to step inside Reflections Boutique and take a look at the guest book, where countless women have left not only thank-yous, but words of encouragement for the next person to read.

"Here at the Leever Center," she said, "we do provide the latest technology and experts in the field. But the boutique is something special."

Donations of wigs and hats are welcome and can be dropped off at the American Cancer Society desk just outside Reflections Boutique.

Tax-deductible contributions may be mailed to Reflections Boutique, in care of Harold Leever Regional Cancer Center, 1075 Chase Parkway, Waterbury 06708.

Those seeking additional information may call 203-757-2294 or 203-575-5555.