Programs to help patients cope with cancer continue growth - Bristol Myers Squibb - Our stories
Programs that help patients cope with cancer continue growth
Around the world, Bristol Myers Squibb’s initiatives to improve the lives of cancer patients are making a significant impact. Here are some recent offerings:
Japan: Pediatric pncology Project
The fragile health of young cancer patients requires isolation from family, friends and school for periods of time during treatment. Keeping these children connected with society is critically important to ensure emotional support and avoid interruption of their growth opportunities. Japan’s Pediatric Oncology Project is funding robotic friends designed to break this isolation. Their hope is that this will improve quality of life, speed recovery time, and of course, bring smiles to young patients during difficult times.
The taller robot, Temi, includes a simple console and follows its patients to provide quick and easy chats or video visits. The smaller purple robot, LOVOT, is much like a pet: it’s cuddly and warm, and it flaps its wings, moves its eyes and responds to its friends.
This is one of several initiatives of the Japan Pediatric Oncology Project. Their mission is to deliver hope to all pediatric cancer patients, families and caregivers by enabling access to advanced treatment and improving quality of life.
Argentina: Vivir con Cáncer digital campaign
Since its launch in 2020, BMS Argentina’s Vivir con Cáncer program has reached more than 20 million people via a dedicated website, videos on YouTube and podcasts on Spotify. The campaign, which features interviews with patients, relatives, caregivers and healthcare providers on living with cancer, was developed in partnership with the Argentine Association of Clinical Oncology. It has won numerous honors in its home country, including a DirCom Award for best digital campaign and two Eikon Awards for social marketing.
Hosted by actor and former cancer patient Facundo Arana (Pequeña Victoria), Vivir con Cáncer tells the stories of survivors from all walks of life. Participants included Olympic sailor Santiago Lange and social media influencer Celeste Iannelli. “This initiative helps us promote prevention and access to information about cancer,” said Juan Diddi, general manager of BMS Argentina. “It’s one of the ways in which we work with experts throughout the healthcare system to ensure that patients get the attention and care they need.”
