Inventor touches lives with product, positive message

A clinical therapist, Pliszka lost her hair at the age of 20, because of a rare autoimmune disorder, alopecia, which makes the body think that hair is an infection and destroys it.

A triathlete and black belt in tae kwon do, Pliszka was inspired to create a product that would allow her to be active and not be inhibited by sweat in her eyes. She invented Headlineit, a thin and disposable liner for hats, wigs and helmets that absorbs sweat and oil.

Pliszka, who started inventing the liner on her own in 2001, received help from top scientists in 2006, when she became a finalist for TV’s “American Inventor.” Since then, many people including cancer patients, military personnel and even 2008 pentathlon Olympian Sheila Taromina, have benefited from Headlineit.

The liner also is the No. 1 accessory for hard hats, Pliszka said.

“Inventing Headlineit was a godsend. Because I had a need and reacted to find a solution to a problem, I am able to help people all over the world with my product."

Pliszka also has written an autobiography and two award-winning children’s books that identify with children who may be different from their peers. Inspiration for the book, “Bella and Gizmo’s Adventures,” came from Pliszka’s hairless sphinx cats, which also star in the books.

Pliszka continues to be a positive influence not only through her invention and books, but also as a motivational speaker.

In the beginning, having alopecia was difficult, but it has turned into an opportunity, Pliszka explained.

“God gave me a shiny bald head, education and a voice to make a difference in this world,” she said.