Canadian Medicalert Foundation

Thanks to Medicalert, I actually wear a medical bracelet.
I thought the medical bracelets in pharmacies were butt-​ugly growing up, so I rarely wore mine; much to the chagrin of coworkers and friends (who actually had to try and remember what my big allergies were, just in case). Yeah, I know, stupid me.
I think I’ve been a Medicalert customer since 2001. I had a big trip that year so ordering a bracelet then would make sense.
Medicalert has a comprehensive website and product offering. I started off with a gold filled personalized bracelet with links because I wanted something that matched the rest of my jewelry — and look good at the same time. When I lost that one, I ordered a gold filled one with pins (not smart). Then, I found the first bracelet just as the second one was dying. Wouldn’t you know it? The first one conked out too shortly after.
They also have sports bands, stainless steel bracelets, copper bracelets, sterling silver bracelets and beaded bracelets, as well as necklets and medical accessories.
On the back of each medallion, they engrave your file number and most important medical information (E.g., Epileptic, Penicillin allergy, Epipen, etc.). If you were to get into get hurt and lose consciousness, medical professionals worldwide will zoom in on the Medicalert logo. They simply have to call the hot line to get your vital information, such as your doctor, next of kin and further details on your medical conditions.
Place an order online and it’s delivered within two to four weeks, or at least, that has been my experience. When you order, they send you a wallet card as well with all your vital information. However, it’s much easier (and safer) to keep that at home when traveling. Think about it: what if you were mugged? You’d be giving the mugger very personal information!
They phoned me less than 24 hours after placing my latest order to go over my file. What information did I want on the medallion? What information was I comfortable having just on the file? They could have emailed me but they took the time to call me, which was appreciated. It arrived just in time for my trip to Hawaii this summer.
I have learned that although the gold and gold filled bracelets look pretty, that little bit of gold makes it weak. The bracelets that are made pins holding together the links are even more delicate.
This last round, I ordered a stylish stainless steel bracelet. It’s so sturdy that I wear it nearly all the time (except when I’m performing because it hits the keys). It’s several steps up from those butt-​ugly unpersonalized ones they still sell in the pharmacies.