My Special Aflac Duck®: A Comforting Companion for Pediatric Cancer Patients

The My Special Aflac Duck® program has been making a significant impact on the lives of pediatric cancer patients and their families. Aflac Incorporated, a leading provider of supplemental health insurance products, has donated over 33,000 robotic ducks to children diagnosed with cancer or sickle cell disease since its inception in 2018. The program recently expanded its reach, donating nearly 200 ducks to Keaton's Child Cancer Alliance in Roseville, California.

The My Special Aflac Duck® is a social robot designed in collaboration with Empath Labs, featuring innovative technology that helps children prepare for medical procedures, communicate their feelings, and practice distraction techniques. A three-year study revealed that patients who received the duck reported a reduction in distress, nausea, pain, and procedural anxiety compared to those who had not yet received one. Additionally, parents and caregivers reported reduced stress and anxiety, demonstrating the emotional support the duck provides to the child's support system.



The duck's interactive features, such as quacking, waddling, and responding to touch, help children engage in play and foster a sense of normalcy during challenging times. The My Special Aflac Duck® program has received numerous awards, including being named one of Time Magazine's 50 Best Inventions and collecting the Best in Show at CES and South by Southwest.



Partnerships with organizations like Keaton's Child Cancer Alliance are crucial to the success of the My Special Aflac Duck® program. These collaborations enable Aflac to reach children in need, providing emotional support and helping them navigate cancer treatment. By working together, Aflac and Keaton's strengthen their commitment to supporting pediatric cancer and blood disorder treatment, ultimately enhancing the program's success and reach.

The My Special Aflac Duck® initiative aligns with Aflac's corporate social responsibility and sustainability goals. The program's widespread reach and positive impact on children and families demonstrate Aflac's commitment to making a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer. By leveraging innovative technology and social robotics, Aflac has created a comforting companion that helps pediatric cancer patients and their families cope with the challenges of treatment.

As the My Special Aflac Duck® program continues to grow and expand, it serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in addressing the emotional needs of children and families facing cancer. By providing comfort, support, and distraction, the robotic duck helps pediatric cancer patients and their families navigate their journey with courage and hope.