When children face life-threatening illnesses, they deserve to be honored for their courage. UAB’s Bravery Beads program allows children to tell their story of strength using colorful beads as meaningful symbols on their road to wellness.
Whenever a child begins treatment at University Hospital, she receives a necklace with her name on it. Each time she undergoes a biopsy, transplant or other treatment milestone, she is presented with a shiny Bravery Bead to add to her necklace to recognize her ongoing strength while battling her illness. The necklace tells the story of her unique experience and also provides her with a precious keepsake.
The Bravery Beads program originated at a children’s hospital in Toronto, Canada. UAB is the first Birmingham-area hospital to host a Bravery Beads program. UAB’s program is funded by the UAB Hospital Auxiliary and also relies heavily on community support.
You can support this unique program by purchasing a Bravery Heart Necklace, which makes a lovely and welcome gift for those on your list this holiday season. The necklaces are handmade of Czech glass beads and a beautiful glass heart emblem. Proceeds from the sale of these unique necklaces will allow UAB to continue providing Bravery Beads to children during the coming year.
Bravery Heart necklaces are priced at $20 and are available at the University Hospital gift shop by calling (205) 934-6434.
For more information, visit the Helping Kids Be Brave Web page.