Robot Donated to Children’s Hospital

Palm Beach Children’s Hospital at St. Mary’s Medical Center has added a new patient companion. The hospital received a robot named Robin through a donation from the Palm Beach Ray of Hope Foundation. The device is intended to provide emotional support and engagement for children receiving care in the facility.

Robin is manufactured by Expper Technologies, a company based in Los Angeles. The robot uses artificial intelligence to create interactive experiences for users. It engages with children through conversations, memory games, and calming routines. These activities are designed to help patients play and connect within the hospital environment.

The donation was facilitated by Janet Levy, who serves as the founder and president of the Palm Beach Ray of Hope Foundation. Levy stated that the foundation aims to support the care team’s commitment to the whole child. She expressed hope that Robin will offer comfort to families and make the hospital experience easier for patients.

Cynthia McCauley, chief executive officer of St. Mary’s Medical Center and Palm Beach Children’s Hospital, described the addition as an investment in patient well-being. McCauley noted that helping children feel supported is a core part of the hospital’s care. She thanked Levy and the foundation for providing a new way for young patients to engage during their hospital stays.

Expper Technologies specializes in robotic systems for emotional and therapeutic support in health care settings. Robin is used in both pediatric and geriatric care. The company’s work has received national recognition, including a listing on TIME’s Best Inventions list. Karen Khachikyan, the creator of Robin at Expper Technologies, said the robot is designed to bring meaningful connection to people who need it most.

Khachikyan noted that a conversation, game, or moment of laughter can improve a child’s day in the hospital. She expressed gratitude to the Palm Beach Ray of Hope Foundation for making the partnership possible. The company tailors Robin’s experiences to specific populations to ensure appropriate support.

The robot will operate alongside the hospital’s existing care team. It offers an additional source of encouragement and connection for pediatric patients. The interactive experiences are structured to support children during vulnerable moments by bringing the familiarity of play into the clinical setting.