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SupportBelt: Ford Tackles Post-Cancer Comfort
Driving after a major surgery or during treatment can be quite challenging. For those who have had a mastectomy or who are equipped with an implantable port for chemotherapy, wearing a seatbelt can cause significant discomfort. The belt can press directly on scarred areas or the medical device itself. Ford France has addressed this specific issue by partnering with the Skin association. They have introduced the SupportBelt in France, a device specifically designed to enhance comfort while in a car.
A Simple Accessory and an Open Patent for the Industry
The purpose is not to replace the seatbelt, but to make it bearable. The SupportBelt is described as a flexible, ergonomic accessory, apparently made of foam, that fits over the strap to minimize the pressure on the chest. Ford’s initiative goes beyond just designing the product. The automaker has filed an open patent for the SupportBelt. The goal is to encourage its adoption across the automotive industry, allowing any company to use the design and manufacture it on a larger scale.
How to Get the SupportBelt for Free in France?
Currently, distribution in France is handled for free by the Skin association, which works for the reconstruction of lives affected by cancer through art and sports. An initial batch of 180 SupportBelts was officially given out on October 9. Interested individuals can request one directly from the association via email (cecile@associationskin.org) for delivery across France. For Parisians, belts will also be available at the Tenon Hospital (AP-HP) starting October 27. Skin is also leading a “Pass It On to Support” program to encourage the reuse of the belts, given the limited stock.
What’s the Verdict?
It’s a commendable initiative. Seeing a major car manufacturer address such a specific post-operative comfort issue is quite rare and deserves recognition. The real highlight is the open-source patent filing. This approach allows Ford to sidestep criticisms of “pink washing” or marketing exploitation by turning a simple product innovation into a potential industrial standard that benefits patients. The partnership with a recognized association for free distribution is also a smart move. The only downside is the initial quantity of 180 units, which seems small, but the reuse program and open patent are designed to address this over the long term!