Introducing the Ford SupportBelt™
Comfort and Relief for Mastectomy Patients on the Road
Made for Mastectomy Patients
One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. More than 100,000 breast cancer patients have mastectomies every year. Many don’t wear their seat belts properly after surgery due to the discomfort.
Purposeful Design
Extensive research and development by the Ford Human Centered Design team led to a product that attaches easily and securely to the seat belt and provides much-needed comfort to mastectomy patients struggling with pain from open wounds, scars, swelling, radiation, chemo ports, and other discomforts associated with surgery.
Premium Materials
With the health and well-being of breast cancer patients top of mind, the SupportBelt is made with premium Ford-approved materials that those undergoing treatment can appreciate. It utilizes flexible and supportive foam, and its fabric is constructed in part from recycled PET water bottles - for a product that's crafted the right way for the right reasons.
Validated by Ford
Researched, designed, and validated by Ford, the SupportBelt is the first device of its kind to be developed by a U.S. automaker. Driven by the passion to build a better world where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams, Ford felt the need to offer this accessory at no cost to mastectomy patients in the U.S. who reserve it.
The SupportBelt™: Enhancing Seatbelt Comfort and Safety
Comfort and Versatility
The SupportBelt™ is designed to provide a comfortable and secure seatbelt experience for passengers in both the driver and front passenger seats. Its unique concave design allows the belt to conform seamlessly to a wide range of body types, ensuring a personalized fit that minimizes the risk of chafing, irritation, or discomfort. By accommodating diverse physiques, the SupportBelt™ promotes increased seatbelt usage and enhances overall safety for all vehicle occupants.
Commitment to Accessibility
In a bold move to promote accessibility and inclusivity across the automotive industry, Ford is making the SupportBelt™ design available for licensing to other automakers. By sharing this groundbreaking technology, Ford aims to encourage widespread adoption and testing of the SupportBelt™ in various vehicle makes and models. This commitment to collaboration underscores Ford's dedication to improving the lives of all vehicle occupants, regardless of their physical characteristics or medical conditions.
The SupportBelt™ represents a significant milestone in the evolution of vehicle safety systems. By prioritizing comfort, versatility, and accessibility, Ford is setting a new standard for inclusivity in the automotive industry. As more automakers embrace this innovative technology, the SupportBelt™ has the potential to positively impact the lives of countless individuals, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a safer, more comfortable driving experience.
