Aflac has expanded its outreach efforts by donating My Special Aflac Duck robotic companions to children undergoing cancer treatment in Northern California. On Thursday, the company delivered nearly 200 of these interactive devices to Keaton’s Child Cancer Alliance in Roseville. This initiative is part of a larger program that has distributed more than 33,000 ducks nationwide since its inception in 2018.
The event also coincided with Keaton’s annual Operation Gobble, during which over 20 families received Thanksgiving meal kits. These ducks are designed to assist pediatric cancer patients by reducing procedural anxiety, offering emotional support, and helping children communicate their feelings. The social robot, developed by Empath Labs in collaboration with families and medical professionals, features technology to engage children through interactive activities, distraction techniques, and preparation for medical procedures.
A three-year study has shown that children with My Special Aflac Duck experienced reduced distress, nausea, and pain during treatment. Parents and caregivers also reported lower levels of stress and anxiety. These findings highlight the therapeutic value of the robotic companion for both patients and their families.
Aflac Senior Vice President and Chief Communications Officer Ines Rodriguez Gutzmer emphasized the importance of supporting children facing cancer, expressing gratitude for the collaboration with Keaton’s Child Cancer Alliance. Jessica Alonso, Executive Director of Keaton’s, echoed these sentiments, noting the profound impact the donation has on the young patients and their families by providing personalized emotional support during their cancer journeys.
Since the program’s debut, My Special Aflac Duck has garnered multiple accolades, including recognition as one of Time Magazine’s 50 Best Inventions. The initiative forms part of Aflac’s broader commitment, which includes more than $184 million in contributions toward pediatric cancer and blood disorder treatment through its support of the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.
