Autism Bracelet

Bracelets for remembrance purposes became popular during and after the Vietnam War, when elegant POW/MIA (Prisoner of War/Missing in Action) bracelets were introduced. The bracelets were made of many different metals, from plain or colored aluminum to copper, brass, silver, stainless steel, even gold. (Others were made of black silicon.) Some people still cherish theirs today, in memory of those who never came home from the war-ravaged region.

Awareness bracelets for many devastating diseases are available today, including the many forms of cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer's, and more. Autism awareness bracelets are made from many materials, from plain silicon rubber to quite costly silver and crystal bead arrangements. Autism designs often include a multi-colored jigsaw puzzle-shaped piece that represents the puzzle or mystery that autism still presents. Yellow in the piece indicates hope. The other colors are used to represent the people from many cultures and all walks of life who suffer from autism.

Autism bracelets composed of beads may have a puzzle-shaped charm in silver fastened to them. Again, the different sizes and colors of the beads and the silver threaded between them represents the many different people afflicted with the disorder. Other bracelet styles include affordable all-metal links with autism ribbons attached and a lobster-claw clasp. There are also bracelets with multiple puzzle charms, or faith, hope and love charms, and so forth.

Several charitable organizations have made arrangements with jewelers and other suppliers to have the bracelets made, with a portion of the proceeds being donated to help fund research and meet other needs. These organizations include the Autism Society of America, state autism societies, and the Doug Flutie, Jr., Foundation for Autism, Inc. There are many choices for those willing to help.