The Little Blue Box

Every website I have read stresses the importance of a medical identification bracelet. In the event my glucose level drops too low and I slip into a hypoglycemic state, this bracelet will let medical personnel know the type of assistance I require.

I carefully monitor my levels throughout the day, but I'm not going to fool myself into believing that I will never make a mistake. Sometimes I get preoccupied when working on designs or I realize I'm short on time and I quickly run out the door. Other times I run those extra miles at the gym pushing through the exhaustion. Yes, I have a stash of glucose tablets in my purse, orange juice in my car, and Werther's in my pocket. But, if I'm not paying attention to my lows and pass out, how will someone help me?

When I was a child, everyone had identification bracelets. Mine was pretty standard-- it had my name, address, and phone number on the inside and etches of children jump-roping on the other. The chunky silver links encircled my wrist. I loved wearing this piece of jewelry. When I began my search, I told one of my close friends that I should whip that bracelet out and engrave an extra line stating that I have diabetes. I probably could have done just that, but I'm pretty certain it wouldn't really mesh well with work/dress attire.

I wanted something that looked timeless. I didn't want a bracelet with the bright red medical symbol, that shouts, "Notice me! I have a disease! Ask me more!" I wanted something subtle, but that would still be noticeable to medical personnel. A light bulb went on and I realized, where would any girl go for a timeless sterling silver piece? Tiffany's, of course! My parents bought me this beautiful bracelet and had it engraved with, "Type 1 Diabetic - Insulin Dependent."

Thank you, Mom and Dad! This bracelet could save my life, but let's just hope it's never necessary.