Heartwarming Holiday Tradition: Ellen Hansen and the Aflac Holiday Duck

For Ellen Hansen from Madison, Mississippi, the holiday season feels incomplete without adding the latest Aflac Holiday Duck to her cherished collection. Her tradition began in 2001 with the inaugural Holiday Duck, and now, 23 years later, her collection is a permanent fixture in her office. This year, however, the ducks have found a festive spot around Hansen's Christmas tree.

As a nursing and hospital administrator, Hansen has devoted her career to caring for children, including those battling cancer and blood disorders, in hospitals across Georgia, Texas, Mississippi, and beyond. Aflac agent Carter May, aware of Hansen's fondness for the holiday plush toys, has delighted in surprising her with the latest collectible each year during her time in Texas. Over the past 13 years, May has gifted nearly 800 ducks to clients, friends, and family.

The 2024 Aflac Holiday Duck is dressed as a holiday baker, complete with a plaid apron, chef's hat, and gingerbread cookie. This year's theme holds special significance for the Hansen family—Ellen’s father-in-law was a longtime bakery owner, and her husband, Steve, has since taken on the role of family baker.

What ties Hansen most deeply to Aflac's holiday duck program, however, is their shared commitment to supporting children in need.

Since its inception in 2001, the Aflac Holiday Duck program has raised more than $4 million through net proceeds to benefit hospitals nationwide that treat children with cancer and blood disorders.
 
Click here to purchase the 2024 Holiday Duck, its available till supplies last.