Susan Braig is a 61-year-old cancer-survivor from Altadena, California, and the brains behind Designer Drug Jewelry. Designer Drug Jewelry is Braig's jewelry line that sells custom creations made out of cancer medication.
Braig started making jewelry out of pills in 2007 when she decided to participate in a medical-themed art show. One pill-encrusted tiara and several other small items later and Designer Drug Jewelry was born. All pills are coated in a special sealant and glued to their respective pieces so as to not be available for abuse.
Each of the pieces are made from donated cancer drugs and sell for anywhere between $15 and $150. The proceeds that Suan Braig makes from her jewelry sales are going towards paying off her massive medical bills that she accrued during her in and outpatient treatment.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Prescription Jewelry
- Creating jewelry from medication creates a sustainable method of medical waste reduction.
- Medical-themed Art
- Incorporating medical themes into art creates opportunities for creative expression and exploration of healthcare issues.
- Custom Creations
- Offering personalized and unique creations boosts customer satisfaction and creates a competitive advantage.
Where This Applies
- Pharmaceuticals
- Partnering with artists and jewelry makers to up-cycle unused medication could improve sustainability and reduce waste of medicine.
- Fashion
- Medicine-inspired fashion could bring awareness to healthcare issues and drive new trends in the fashion industry.
- Healthcare
- Incorporating creative outlets in healthcare environments can improve patient experiences and mental well-being.
