THE’Montpellier ICM inaugurated a revolutionary project dedicated to children with cancer with the arrival of Mirokia humanoid robot designed to accompany young patients during the care path. This device, unique in the world, was developed by the company Enchanted Tools and integrated in the department of pediatric radiotherapy of the Institute, thanks to the support of Siric Montpellier Cancer.
Miroki is not a simple robot, but a real interactive partner With a welcoming and affectionate personality. Its main purpose is to offer one Family and reassuring presence To children who face difficult moments, reducing the sense of solitude, fear and anxiety typical of radiotherapy sessions. The robot will in fact be present during visits, consultations and also during treatmentswhen human access is limited or impossible, helping to create a more serene and less stressful environment.
The idea of the project was born from the direct experience of Dr Julien Welmant, a pediatric radiotherapist at the ICM, who wanted to put technology at the service of humanity. As he himself points out, everyday life with sick children often brings emotions of isolation and fearand Miroki represents an innovative response to these problems, ensuring that small patients never feel alone in the care rooms.
The impact of the robot on the quality of the therapeutic experience will be assessed
Miroki’s experimentation will be accompanied by one rigorous research activityaimed at evaluating the impact of the robot on human behavior and the quality of the therapeutic experience. In addition, the effects of exposure to radiation on the device themselves will be studied. These insights are essential to be able to adopt Miroki in daily clinical practice, with the supervision and scientific coordination of David Azria, director of the Siric Montpellier Cancer Consortium.
The project saw the participation of Numerous donorsmade possible thanks to the generosity of Sandrine Moustardier and the support of Laeticia Hallyday and its association La Bonne Etoile, who raised funds in the local community to finance the purchase of the prototype. Now a campaign is underway to support research activities and to further develop the interactive environment around Miroki.
According to Marc Ychou, general manager of the ICM, this initiative represents a step forward in oncological innovation, marrying the vision of the Montpellier Medalée, which aims to integrate advanced technologies to improve people’s care. Miroki perfectly embodies this commitment, becoming a symbol of a future in which technology is at the service of human care and well -being.
