Ford SupportBelt Helped My Mom Regain Her Freedom during Cancer Battle

Jackie Kovalcik is a Ford SupportBelt customer whose mother is battling breast cancer. Her story shares how the Ford SupportBelt has helped provide comfort to women undergoing treatment. Through her story, we hope to bring a community together for like experiences and spread awareness of resources available for those experiencing discomfort in their vehicles while undergoing treatment.

You hear people talk about how hard it is being a caregiver for a parent, but nothing prepares you for when it’s your turn to step up to the plate.

Last April, my mom really started having mobility issues. She had an initial hip replacement surgery, which drummed up some complications. The next six months was a series of ER visits and doctors’ appointments, in addition to typical annual screenings. She had her first routine mammogram in August and the results came back peculiar. We didn’t think much of it, though; we figured the picture was unclear or there was an error with the machine. We definitely weren’t expecting what came next.

The diagnosis hit us like a ton of bricks. It was ductal carcinoma in situ breast cancer. Initially, it seemed like a simple lumpectomy – a surgery to remove the abnormal breast tissue - would solve it. We celebrated after her first procedure with our usual frozen custard date. But when her next test results came back, she was forced to go in for another lumpectomy.

I’d never had anyone in my family diagnosed with cancer, and I try to do whatever I can to brighten her days. Before each appointment I try to lift her spirits, decorating the house with themes from her favorite things – the Golden Girls, Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda, and Lily Tomlin. It was my way of coping, too. But when you feel like you’re constantly getting slapped in the face by life, it’s easy to feel helpless.

It was during this time that I saw a post on LinkedIn about the new Ford SupportBelt. It was action-oriented and solution-based, not just another pink ribbon campaign. I knew immediately that it would help my mom. In addition, the SupportBelt gave me a sense of hope and agency in a situation where I felt powerless. The fact that Ford wasn’t profiting on the product, that it was complimentary (except for shipping), made it feel genuine. I ordered one immediately.

My mom’s first lumpectomy took place before the belt was available, and I struggled to help her get comfortable in the car afterwards. People on different support forums suggested all sorts of makeshift options. It was frustrating.

We had the SupportBelt to help with her second lumpectomy, and with the new belt in place, the ride home was so much better. It's user-friendly – even someone with arthritis and low vision, like my mom, can easily use it independently. I even noticed she was more willing to go out and be in the car compared to after her first surgery. It made a real difference.

The third lumpectomy is scheduled soon, and I’m so relieved to have the SupportBelt. It’s more than just a seatbelt aid; it's a symbol of hope and support during a challenging time. My mom, who loves her Ford Edge, quickly adapted to using the SupportBelt. It's discreet, and it adds a layer of comfort and security that I couldn't have provided any other way.

The SupportBelt is designed and validated for Ford and Lincoln vehicle specifications and is intended only for use in those vehicles. Ford is making the design available via license for other automakers to manufacture and test in their vehicles. For shoulder belt use only. Do not use on lap portion of belt. Not for use by children or with child seats or booster seats. For use by mastectomy patients.