More Than a Mascot: Aflac Duck Robot Comforts Kid Cancer Patients—and Sets an Example for Pharma

CANNES, FRANCE—From advertising icon to pediatric cancer pal, the Aflac duck has transformed from a TV commercial attention-getter to a trusted friend for children with cancer. The plush Alfac duck robot, with naturalistic movements, comes to life with quacks and nuzzles, but it also helps kids communicate.

My Special Alfac Duck comes with seven RFID emoji emotion cards to help kids convey through the duck how they’re feeling. It also has a catheter accessory kids can attach, its own “real” heartbeat, music and calming sounds and an interactive play app.

Contune reading on Fierce Pharma