Free My Special Aflac Duck for Children with Cancer or Sickle Cell Disease
Aflac, a prominent U.S. supplemental health insurance provider and a dedicated advocate for families grappling with pediatric cancer and blood disorders, has brought its renowned My Special Aflac Duck to children at University Hospital in San Antonio. This event underscores Aflac’s unwavering commitment to providing solace and happiness to young patients on their treatment journeys.
The My Special Aflac Duck, a groundbreaking robotic companion, employs medical play, lifelike movements, and emotional mimicry to engage with and comfort children undergoing therapy. Developed in partnership with over 100 children, families, and healthcare professionals over a year and a half, this animatronic duck acts as a vital instrument to assist children in managing the emotional facets of their treatments. To date, over 25,000 My Special Aflac Ducks have been given to children with cancer and sickle cell disease at no cost.
“Aflac’s mission is deeply ingrained in standing by our policyholders during life’s most challenging times. My Special Aflac Duck serves as a physical representation of that commitment,” stated Ines Rodriguez Gutzmer, Senior Vice President, Communications, Aflac Incorporated. “Seeing the genuine smiles on children’s faces as they welcome a new friend on their journey warms our hearts, and we are delighted to bring this award-winning resource to the children at University Health who are navigating the path of pediatric cancer or blood disorders like sickle cell disease.”
Children at University Health took part in a My Special Aflac Duck demonstration and participated in challenges before receiving their own robotic companion. The patients and their families were invited to stay for the duck reveal party, where they enjoyed various activities such as creating birth certificates and beaded necklaces for their ducks, coloring, and more.
“University Health and our partners at UT Health San Antonio are dedicated to improving outcomes for children battling cancer and sickle cell disease. Our efforts encompass not just comprehensive medical care but also therapeutic activities and emotional support,” said Irene Sandate, Chief Nursing Officer, University Health Women’s and Children’s Hospital.
“Our team of child life specialists assists children and their families in understanding and coping with challenging healthcare events. Specially adapted toys like My Special Aflac Duck offer a comforting presence and a means for children to understand and react to their treatments.”
My Special Aflac Duck comes with an interactive mobile app for virtual care, customizable soundscapes for calming visuals and sounds, smart sensors for touch and awareness, a soothing heartbeat, and breathing vibrations. Named Best in Show at CES in Las Vegas and featured on Time Magazine’s list of Best Inventions, the duck has received praise for its innovative approach to pediatric care.
Healthcare professionals, support groups, and families can request My Special Aflac Duck at no cost for children aged 3 and above who have been diagnosed with cancer or sickle cell disease. The requests can be made by clicking here.
The My Special Aflac Duck, a groundbreaking robotic companion, employs medical play, lifelike movements, and emotional mimicry to engage with and comfort children undergoing therapy. Developed in partnership with over 100 children, families, and healthcare professionals over a year and a half, this animatronic duck acts as a vital instrument to assist children in managing the emotional facets of their treatments. To date, over 25,000 My Special Aflac Ducks have been given to children with cancer and sickle cell disease at no cost.
“Aflac’s mission is deeply ingrained in standing by our policyholders during life’s most challenging times. My Special Aflac Duck serves as a physical representation of that commitment,” stated Ines Rodriguez Gutzmer, Senior Vice President, Communications, Aflac Incorporated. “Seeing the genuine smiles on children’s faces as they welcome a new friend on their journey warms our hearts, and we are delighted to bring this award-winning resource to the children at University Health who are navigating the path of pediatric cancer or blood disorders like sickle cell disease.”
Children at University Health took part in a My Special Aflac Duck demonstration and participated in challenges before receiving their own robotic companion. The patients and their families were invited to stay for the duck reveal party, where they enjoyed various activities such as creating birth certificates and beaded necklaces for their ducks, coloring, and more.
“University Health and our partners at UT Health San Antonio are dedicated to improving outcomes for children battling cancer and sickle cell disease. Our efforts encompass not just comprehensive medical care but also therapeutic activities and emotional support,” said Irene Sandate, Chief Nursing Officer, University Health Women’s and Children’s Hospital.
“Our team of child life specialists assists children and their families in understanding and coping with challenging healthcare events. Specially adapted toys like My Special Aflac Duck offer a comforting presence and a means for children to understand and react to their treatments.”
My Special Aflac Duck comes with an interactive mobile app for virtual care, customizable soundscapes for calming visuals and sounds, smart sensors for touch and awareness, a soothing heartbeat, and breathing vibrations. Named Best in Show at CES in Las Vegas and featured on Time Magazine’s list of Best Inventions, the duck has received praise for its innovative approach to pediatric care.
Healthcare professionals, support groups, and families can request My Special Aflac Duck at no cost for children aged 3 and above who have been diagnosed with cancer or sickle cell disease. The requests can be made by clicking here.
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