FAST54: Saving Lives Through Creative Storytelling
Core Skills: Creative Storytelling • Brand Strategy • Community Engagement • Health Advocacy
Summary
In collaboration with Bobby Wagner, the Seattle Seahawks, and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, we developed FAST54, a graphic novel designed to raise awareness about stroke prevention and education. This project was deeply personal for Wagner, who lost his mother, Phenia Mae Wagner, to a stroke. In her honor, he established the Phenia Mae Fund to advocate for stroke awareness and support victims. The challenge was to create an engaging, educational campaign that combined design, visual storytelling and advocacy to resonate with a broad audience.
Task
My role was to lead the creative development and storytelling for FAST54, ensuring the project effectively communicated the critical F.A.S.T. acronym (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 911) in an impactful and memorable way. The objective was to weave these life-saving messages into a compelling narrative that honored Phenia Mae Wagner’s legacy while driving community engagement and media attention.
Action
Crafted a compelling narrative:
• Designed a graphic novel where Bobby Wagner saves a stroke victim by recognizing the signs and acting quickly, emphasizing that heroism lies in swift, informed action.
• Integrated the F.A.S.T. acronym seamlessly into the story, making it easy for readers to understand and remember.
Developed strategic partnerships:
• Collaborated with the Seattle Seahawks, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, and Nike to extend the campaign’s reach.
• Coordinated with media outlets and stakeholders to amplify the project’s visibility across multiple platforms.
Executed creative storytelling across platforms:
• Worked with Nike to design custom cleats featuring the comic’s artwork, which Bobby Wagner wore during an NFL game to amplify awareness.
• Delivered visuals and storytelling elements that connected deeply with the target audience, combining advocacy with emotional resonance.
Leveraged media attention:
• Supported the campaign’s promotion, which gained national attention through features on ESPN and other platforms, further amplifying its impact.
Result
National recognition: FAST54 garnered significant media attention, including a feature on ESPN, increasing awareness of stroke prevention across a wide audience.
Advocacy success: Bobby Wagner’s leadership, bolstered by the project, contributed to his nomination for the prestigious NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.
Community impact: The graphic novel successfully educated readers on recognizing stroke symptoms, combining storytelling and health advocacy to make a lasting impression.
Honored a legacy: The campaign celebrated the life of Phenia Mae Wagner, ensuring her story inspired others to act and save lives.
Brand Touchpoint Gallery
