|
The Story Behind the “Hands with Puzzle Pieces© ” Design The Hands with Puzzle Pieces design began with a request for a custom designed piece of jewelry, specifically having to do with Autism. Good friends of my wife and I, Sue & Jim Haskell, have 4 boys with 3 of them labeled on the spectrum of Autism. Sue and Jim have shown such strength and courage in their daily lives living with autism. They are an inspiration to say the least. Sue and Jim are members of a local organization titled FEAT of CNY (Families for Effective Autism Treatment). The then president of FEAT, Bobbi Rogers, had mentioned to Sue that she wished there were some jewelry designs available that weren’t the usual ribbon style. Sue mentioned me and my work and they set up a design consultation. We talked over different ideas and they both left it up to me to design something special. I wanted this design to be unique and meaningful. My wife, Megan, and I talked over what this piece should mean. Megan is a teacher and has special education training and her input was invaluable. The final design shows an adult’s hand and a child’s hand each holding a puzzle piece, the puzzle piece being the universal symbol for Autism. Together, the adult and child are putting their respective pieces together. This is meant to show how adults and children work together to live fruitful, productive, happy lives. I have been very fortunate that through this design I have met so many wonderful people, adults and children. Each and every one has a special story that is emotional and inspirational. It has enriched my life. In 2006 I received a copyright on my design from the Library of Congress.
A portion of every Autism Awareness Jewelry we sell is donated to FEAT of CNY.
I hope you enjoy my designs. Tom McLaughlin
|
|