BMS France is convinced that the 2 pillars “Cure” and “Care” are inseparable.

Let’s explain the Cure approach: how does BMS support research in paediatric oncology?

Paediatric cancers are the leading cause of childhood illness in industrialized countries, and a major public health issue, particularly in neuro-oncology. At Bristol-Myers Squibb, we believe that joining forces with expert centres, thought leaders, patient groups and existing paediatric programs is essential to advancing research.

As a result, in September 2016, we signed a strategic partnership with Gustave Rousey and Institut Curie to accelerate research in Immuno-Oncology and Paediatric Oncology. The partnership aims to advance science in childhood malignancies as a key research pathway to improving their management.

Concerning the Care approach: Outside R&D, how does BMS help young patients and their families that are affected by the disease?

BMS France believes that joining forces with academics and patients groups through innovative projects is essential to improve the quality of life for children living with cancer.

One of the most exciting new pilot projects, called "Vik-e" is a partnership with the patient association called APPEL in Lyon. It is allowing children and adolescents to maintain ties and stay connected with their friends, families and school communities when they are confined to sterile, isolated environments for up to several months at a time during treatment. At such a crucial age and during hospitalization, it is important to children and teens to maintain social, psychological and pedagogical bonds with their families, friends, and school communities. The “Vik-e” project allows patient to control a robot from his hospital sterile room that has direct interactions with the outside world.

How does the Vik-e project work?

Via a Wi-Fi or 4G connection and a PC, the child remotely manages the robot's movements, thus allowing contact with family, friends and classmates. By interacting through the avatar, the child can participate remotely in cultural and sporting events, in classroom activities and with his or her family. This technology will enable children hospitalized in paediatric oncology wards to share, exchange, and participate with their loved ones, and maintain an emotional and social bond with the outside world. At the moment the pilot project benefits twelve young people a year, between the ages of 10 and 25 years, who are hospitalized at the IHOPe or in the haematology units of the Léon Bérard Centre in Lyon, France. You can see more about the project here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-v-coDHimTQ