867-5309 Cancer Hotline
- 3 days ago
- 1 min read
A nostalgic piece of pop culture is being transformed into a lifeline for those in need: the iconic phone number 867-5309 now connects callers to free cancer support services. Once famous for sparking prank calls after the 1981 hit Tommy Tutone song, the number has been repurposed by organizations like the Cancer Support Community and Gilda’s Club to provide real help— offering emotional support, guidance, and resources for patients, families, and caregivers. The band’s lead singer, Tommy Heath, has backed the effort and is excited that the number now has a new, meaningful meaning. By turning something widely recognized and playful into an accessible support system, the initiative is making it easier for people to reach out in difficult moments— proving that familiar cultural touchstones can be reimagined to bring comfort, connection, and hope to those in need.
Image via Gilda's Club
Read other stories from the 4/13/26 newsletter: