Robot Duck's Aim: Helps Kids With Cancer Via Power of Play

The robot duck is modeled after the mascot for the insurance company Aflac, which paid for its development and is branding the duck with its name. Aflac spokesman Jon Sullivan said the ducks -- plush on the outside with sophisticated robotics hidden beneath a washable cover -- will be given free to children diagnosed with cancer in the U.S. The duck is expected to be featured Monday at the CES gadget show in Las Vegas. Sullivan said the company intends to continue covering costs of the duck for kids, with no plans for hospitals or insurers to pay for them -- unlike Jerry the Bear, which can be purchased directly online.