Smilow Cancer Hospital

Defining viral

Challenge

Position Smilow Cancer Hospital as a hospital with a legacy of innovation.

challenge accepted

Solution

Stop whispering the word ‘cancer’.

Celebrate the renewal of life after cancer. Leverage BoDeans’ Billboard Hit “Closer to Free.” The title itself became the campaign theme and a national rallying cry.

We staged a live event at New Haven’s Union Station – a flash mob featuring cancer survivors, caregivers, dancers and a children’s choir, creating a spontaneous celebration of life before hundreds of stunned commuters, many of whom spontaneously joined in the event.

Results

7
straight years at 100% capacity
2
new floors opened two years ahead of schedule
$23M+
generated by Ride fundraiser