Bradenton Fire Department Goes Pink "For the Cure"

Bradenton Firefighters and other employees at the Bradenton Fire Department are in the pink this month.

The fire department has designed, produced and sold special duty shirts in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness month and to raise money for the cause. This is the first year the BFD has participated in wearing special duty
shirts.  

Fire Chiefs throughout Manatee County had discussed the idea a few months ago. Chief Chuck Edwards proposed the idea during a department organizational meeting, not certain what the feedback would be.  

The consensus was to go pink' in support of the more than 20-year October initiative to help find a cure for breast cancer. Nearly every member of the department purchased their own on- and off-duty versions of the shirts, produced by a local vendor.

Other fire departments locally and hundreds across the country participate in
wear pink shirts in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  

The International Association of FireFighters (IAFF) "encourages affiliates to
organize fundraising and awareness campaigns in support of the fight against
breast and other cancers. Over the last several years, IAFF affiliates across
North America have participated in events throughout October, prompting a
movement to wear and sell pink T-shirts as part of their breast cancer
awareness efforts."  

Gauging the interest and support this year, the department may entertain growing the initiative next year.