Good advice, JenJen.
As for growing your hair, hair grows. That's what it does. What you want to do is KEEP as much hair as possible, and there are basic ways to do that, which have already been listed.
1. Practice protective styling (keep your ends protected--wear styles that keep ends from rubbing on your clothes and being exposed to harsh weather, and avoid rough handling)
2. Use a moisturizing conditioner (and water!) regularly
3. Don't clog your scalp with petrolatum and mineral-oil based products
4. Use as little direct heat as possible
5. Practice good health (exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, drink plenty of water, get enough sleep, don't smoke)
6. Get regular trims (I trim every 4 months, about a half inch)
7. Sleep on a satin pillowcase