Aflac's Special Duck Brings Joy to Pediatric Patients at Riley Hospital

In a heartwarming initiative, Aflac Incorporated has once again demonstrated its commitment to children's health by delivering 40 of its My Special Aflac Duck® robotic companions to children undergoing treatment at Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis. This donation marks yet another step in Aflac’s journey to provide comfort and support to young patients battling cancer and blood disorders. Since the program's inception, nearly 50,000 ducks have been distributed to children in similar situations, ensuring every child has a companion through the often daunting treatment process.

Riley Hospital, a beacon of hope and healing for over a century, has long relied on the benevolent support of the Riley Children's Foundation. This body has been instrumental in raising funds for state-of-the-art pediatric care and research, enabling the hospital to serve more than 300,000 young patients annually, making it Indiana's only nationally-ranked children's hospital.

On the day of the donation, the hospital's young patients and their families were introduced to the My Special Aflac Duck in a festive event designed to inspire laughter and play. Each duck, designed through consultations with over a hundred children, families, and medical experts, is equipped with interactive features like RFID emoji cards and an engaging app. These resources foster communication and creativity, providing not just companionship but also playful distractions from the rigors of medical treatment.

The study of My Special Aflac Duck's impact revealed significant benefits for both children and their caregivers. Results from a three-year clinical trial involving numerous hospitals across the U.S. indicated that interactions with the duck helped diminish anxiety and distress associated with treatment in pediatric patients. Further reinforcing its importance, the beloved companion was honored by TIME magazine as one of the Best Inventions of 2018 and also received accolades at CES 2018 and South by Southwest 2019.

“The courage these children display in the face of serious illness is incredible. It’s our hope that the My Special Aflac Duck can make the tough days just a little less hard,” said Ines Rodriguez Gutzmer, Aflac's senior vice president. The initiative underscores Aflac's long-standing mission: to care for children in their most vulnerable states, transforming fear and uncertainty into comfort and joy.

Courtney Roberts, president of the Riley Children’s Foundation, articulated gratitude toward Aflac for their ongoing support, emphasizing that innovative tools like the My Special Aflac Duck play a crucial role in addressing the emotional needs of children during difficult times. The partnership is one that not only enhances the hospital’s capacity to deliver holistic care but also creates meaningful moments of joy amidst times of struggle.

Currently, Aflac has proudly given out more than 48,000 ducks free of charge, reaching children in various countries including the U.S., Japan, and Northern Ireland. The program stands as a testament to Aflac's dedication to improving the lives of children facing serious health challenges. Families and healthcare providers can order these special ducks for children aged 3 and older diagnosed with cancer or sickle cell disease from their dedicated website.

Aflac, a Fortune 500 company, has been a leader in supplemental health insurance for over seventy years. Recognized for its ethical practices and social responsibilities, Aflac is also a committed ally in funding research, treatment, and support programs for pediatric cancers, having contributed over $200 million over the last thirty years. To learn more about how to access these supportive resources, visit Aflac's website.

Conclusion

The initiative by Aflac and Riley Hospital exemplifies the profound impact that compassion and innovation can have on pediatric healthcare. As young patients embrace their My Special Aflac Ducks, they find not just a toy, but a true friend that alleviates some of their anxiety during the challenging journey of treatment. It’s partnerships like these that truly embody the saying, “Together, we can make a difference.”