Derwin Keith Hunt, a distinguished humanitarian inventor, founder and chief executive officer of Hunt Innovations LLC, has earned a coveted spot in Marquis Who’s Who for his groundbreaking contributions to bathroom safety. As the inventor of The SoftSide®, a patented solution designed to prevent injuries in the bathroom, Mr. Hunt has transformed how we approach bathtub safety for generations to come.
“I created The SoftSide® to bring comfort, safety and beauty to an overlooked part of the home,” says Mr. Hunt. “Slips and falls are common in bathrooms, and my invention offers a simple yet effective way to prevent injuries, should a slip or fall occur.”
The SoftSide®: A Simple Invention with Life-Changing Impact
The SoftSide® is a U-shaped foam cushion with a non-slip coating that fits over the side of any standard bathtub. Designed to reduce the risk of injury significantly, this innovative product addresses a crucial gap in bathroom safety. A 2022 Centers for Disease Control (CDC) report highlighted that replacing bathtubs with showers has not effectively reduced bathroom-related injuries, making The SoftSide® a timely and essential solution.
“When I developed The SoftSide®, I wanted to create something that wasn’t just functional but transformative,” explains Mr. Hunt. “It’s about more than just preventing injury—it’s about giving people of all ages, from children to seniors, a safe and relaxing environment in the bathroom.”
From Humble Beginnings to Industry Recognition
Mr. Hunt’s journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a successful inventor is a testament to his determination. He spent nearly 30 years in the car business honing his skills in sales and leadership before founding Hunt Innovations LLC in 2021. His invention, The SoftSide®, has since garnered significant attention and accolades, including the AsiaOne Person of the Year award in 2024 and Most Innovative Product for Medical and Hospital Services during the same year.
“I always knew I wanted to leave a legacy, not just for my daughters but for people everywhere,” says Mr. Hunt. “Innovative ideas can come from anyone, and The SoftSide® is proof of that.”
In addition to his entrepreneurial pursuits, Mr. Hunt is a sought-after speaker and motivator. He was invited as a keynote speaker at AsiaOne in Dubai. His insights into safety and innovation have made him prominent in bathroom design and solutions.
A Mission of Safety and Dignity
Mr. Hunt’s invention is not just about reducing liability for caregivers and businesses; it is about fostering independence and dignity for individuals with limited mobility, rehabilitation needs or anyone at risk of slipping in the bathroom. With The SoftSide®, Mr. Hunt envisions a safer future for everyone, where bathers can feel secure in one of the most accident-prone areas of the home.
Mr. Hunt’s product is gaining traction both in public facilities and private homes, with the potential to become a household staple soon. His vision is clear: “I want people to look at this invention and know that it’s not just a product—it’s a solution that improves lives.”
About Marquis Who’s Who
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who’s Who in America®, Marquis Who’s Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who’s Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who’s Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.
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