How Simon’s Heart and the Flyers Turned Sudden Death Overtime into Life-Saving Impact
Background
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is the leading cause of death among student-athletes, a silent risk that often goes unnoticed. Simon’s Heart, a nonprofit dedicated to preventing sudden cardiac arrest in young people, needed a way to raise awareness about the risks and warning signs. At the same time, the Philadelphia Flyers sought to engage fans with a meaningful health initiative.
The result? A powerful collaboration that saved lives, educated fans, and provided life-saving tools to youth facilities.
The Campaign: Sudden Death Overtime
We designed an innovative program called Sudden Death Overtime, blending the excitement of hockey with the critical mission of saving lives.
- How It Worked:
- Every time the Philadelphia Flyers entered sudden death overtime, the team donated an automated external defibrillator (AED) to a local youth facility.
- The campaign used the concept of “sudden death” to highlight the tragedy of losing young lives to cardiac arrest.
- Fan Engagement:
- Flyers fans learned about the risks and warning signs of sudden cardiac arrest through:
- Social Media Campaigns: Educational posts across Flyers’ social channels.
- In-Game Announcements: Messages shared during games to raise awareness.
- Media Coverage: Press releases and stories amplified the program’s reach.
- Flyers fans learned about the risks and warning signs of sudden cardiac arrest through:
Over the course of two seasons, this impactful campaign donated more than 20 AED devices to youth facilities, ensuring that life-saving tools were in place where they were needed most.
The Results
The Sudden Death Overtime campaign left a lasting impact on the community:
- 20+ AED Devices Donated: Each device was placed in a local youth facility, increasing access to life-saving equipment.
- Thousands Educated: Flyers fans, families, and athletes became more aware of sudden cardiac arrest and its risks.
- Positive Media Coverage:
The campaign successfully combined sports and philanthropy to address a critical public health issue, showing how powerful partnerships can drive meaningful change.
What’s Next?
Simon’s Heart continues to innovate in the fight against sudden cardiac arrest, and the Flyers remain committed to making an impact in their community. Together, they’ve proven that even the most thrilling moments in sports can be tied to a life-saving cause.
Let’s Create Impact Together
Inspired by this campaign? Contact us today to learn how we can design innovative, mission-driven programs that make a difference in your community.