The Jewelry That Gives Peace of Mind

by Kristyn Crow | More from this Blogger

20 Oct 2006 06:59 AM

Have you ever considered what might happen if your child had a medical emergency and you weren't around? And if your child couldn't speak due to a disability or because he was unconscious, how could he get help?

William Y. Rial, Former President of the American Medical Association has said,

"Even if your children are old enough to understand the seriousness of their condition, why gamble on the ability to communicate in a situation in which they may be unconscious or too ill to speak? If your children suffer from any condition that could endanger them or complicate treatment in a crisis, you should insist that they wear MedicAlert identification."

Everyone has heard of "MedicAlert" necklaces, but often people are reluctant to get them for their kids. They think that the clunky metal chain around their child's neck will stigmatize him or her. And they figure, "I'm around my child most of the time, anyway."

But imagine these scenarios:

• You are in a car accident, and are rendered unconscious. Paramedics arrive on the scene. Your child in the back seat has a medical condition which doctors should be aware of, but you aren't able to speak.

• Your daughter is a diabetic, and develops dangerously low blood sugar during a class field trip. She becomes confused and disoriented, and no one is sure what's going on.

• Your son is autistic, and has wandered away from home. He's not able to verbally give identifying information.

• Your child has a food allergy which could cause his airway to swell. You want him to be able to go to birthday parties and social events, but are fearful about the food being prepared and whether anyone will recognize if he's having a reaction.

• Your daughter is on medication which should not be mixed with other drugs. A caregiver cannot reach you by phone, and is wondering what she can safely give for your daughter's fever.

• Your son has a seizure in a public place while you're away.

These are just a few examples of why MedicAlert emblems are a wise investment for your child. Any chronic or persistent condition warrants a MedicAlert necklace or bracelet. The emblems are easily recognizable by medical personnel, and simple to use. When your child becomes a MedicAlert member, he or she gets an identifying number. By calling the clearly engraved 1-800 number and giving your child's identifying number on the back of the emblem, professionals at the scene of an emergency can find out your child's pertinent medical information-like current medications and dosages, allergies, chronic conditions, disorders, and other issues. And it's very easy to update the information when it changes. MedicAlert has your contact information and will immediately notify you in the event of an emergency involving your child. If they can't reach you, they will attempt to reach relatives or friends on a list which you have provided.

MedicAlert tags can be ordered with decorative sports bands in a variety of fun patterns, or on a bracelet with beads (lots of styles and colors to choose from), as a shoe band, or other options. Emblems come in gold, silver, bronze, and other styles. The old-standard metal necklace is still available, but your child might be more inclined to wear a MedicAlert emblem in a fun, stylish new way.

The cost to enroll your child is about $35.00, and then $20 each new year that you renew membership. It's a small price to pay for your child's safety.

MedicAlert has been in business for 50 years, and has saved numerous lives. Get your child his own special emblem today, and you'll have peace of mind.

To contact MedicAlert, take a look at their website: www.medicalert.org/kidsmart Or, call 1-888-904-7630.

Kristyn Crow is the author of this blog. Visit her website by clicking here.

Related Articles:

Preparing for a Trip to the Emergency Room

Safety

Allergy Emergencies

What Babysitters and Caregivers of Diabetic Kids Should Know

Learn more about Kristyn Crow

Kristyn Crow is the mother of seven children, and the author of three children's books. Visit her website at www.kristyncrow.com.

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Megan Bayliss (3586) 20 Oct 2006 08:27 AM

That's some groovy looking jewelery. I'll link this to one of my child protection blogs as a favorite of the day.

Kristyn Crow (2546) 20 Oct 2006 11:39 AM

Yep, they have some great stuff. There are lots of options in case some kids are sensitive to wearing things against their skin. THANKS so much, Megan, for the link!