dog tag

       Today my mom hands me over a manila envelop, which has my name on it. I tear open the packaging, and pull out this light green pouch. I open the tie, then I pull out a pink dog tag. On one side, the word "ICE" is inscribed in white uppercase letters. I look puzzled at my mother, who has her vision locked on the road. I then, do the same. I ask her what "ICE" stands for. She glances at me minutes later, once she reaches a red light. She turns to me and slowly says "In.. Case... of Emergency". I look at her, still puzzled.       

       The light turns green and she yet again continues driving. I turn the dog tag over, and it has my name. The next line says Medical Alert. I am so aggravated. I have to wear this everywhere I go. No matter what I am wearing. I understand it is for my safety, but why a necklace, and why a dog tag? My mom, once we get home says "I got a bracelet, you're not the only one with this condition." She gets a bracelet with green Rhine stones, and a small little piece of metal that says "ICE". She takes ONE medication, she doesn't have an illness, just depression. I take six, plus a huge patch. I hate bracelets, but having a dog tag around my neck draws attention, if it is accidentally out of my shirt. People will know I have a medical illness. I do not like pity. I do not like that kind of attention. I do not want people to know. I do not want to have to answer questions. I keep my illness to myself, since it is MY illness. We'll see how it goes.