In a groundbreaking initiative, Ford Motor Company has introduced the Ford SupportBelt, a specialized device designed to alleviate seatbelt discomfort for individuals recovering from mastectomies. Inspired by Lynn Simoncini, a breast cancer survivor and creative director at VML, the SupportBelt addresses the common post-surgery challenge of wearing a seatbelt, which can cause pain and pressure on healing chest areas.
The Ford SupportBelt, developed from soft, breathable foam, attaches to the vehicle’s seatbelt, reducing discomfort for patients who have undergone breast tissue removal. Ford will offer the device at no cost to mastectomy patients in the U.S., with initial shipments expected by mid-November. Manufactured by Lear Corporation, the SupportBelt is set to bring relief to approximately 100,000 mastectomy patients each year.
Simoncini’s journey began after her own surgery in 2022, when she discovered the lack of solutions for post-mastectomy seatbelt discomfort. Her idea, developed with partner Chad Woolums, caught the attention of Ford’s design team, leading to the creation of the SupportBelt.
Dr. Nayana Dekhne, a breast surgeon for Corewell Health, emphasized the ongoing need for such a device, saying, “Residual pain and sensitivities can last for months after surgery, making everyday objects painful and uncomfortable.” Ford’s design team, led by experience design director Emily Obert and design intern Rima Shkoukani, worked tirelessly to ensure the SupportBelt met Ford’s high standards of comfort and usability.
The device is part of Ford’s broader commitment to supporting breast cancer patients. For over 30 years, Ford Warriors in Pink has invested more than $139 million in the fight against breast cancer.
With a patent filed and plans to open the design to other manufacturers, Ford aims to scale the production of SupportBelt globally, providing comfort to even more patients in the future.
Simoncini, who now uses the SupportBelt daily, hopes that other women will find solace in the product, knowing it was created by people who understand their struggles. “I hope women everywhere get the SupportBelt and find comfort in knowing that this product has been brought to them by a group of people who recognize their battle.”
Ford continues to push the boundaries of thoughtful design, ensuring that every drive can be more comfortable for those on the road to recovery.
