Carlyss Fire Fighters Going Pink in October

September 3, 2010 -- This October marks the 25th anniversary of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Carlyss, LA 4802 fire fighters plan to recognize the month by exchanging their regular duty shirts for pink T-shirts. The shirts will be worn during all shifts throughout October and are being sold at Carlyss firehouses to the public. All proceeds benefit various cancer-based charities.

“We had heard from other IAFF affiliates about what a positive impact the pink T-shirt campaign can have on cancer awareness and research,” says Local 4802 President Jeremy White. “Inspired by their successes, we organized our own event for the first time this year. The community response has already been so positive that we hope to plan a bigger campaign in 2011.”

In addition to donating T-shirt proceeds to charity, the fire fighters have also reserved several shirts --autographed by the fire fighters -- to deliver as gifts to area cancer survivors. Local 4802 members are working with local charities to determine who will receive the special shirts.

On October 2, several off-duty Local 4802 fire fighters will wear their T-shirts for the “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” five-mile walk in Sulphur, Louisiana. The walk raises money for the American Cancer Society.

Many other IAFF locals will be joining Local 4802 in their efforts this October.

IAFF delegates at the IAFF 50th Convention in San Diego, California, passed a “Care Enough to Wear Pink” resolution. The resolution states that the IAFF will recognize, support and encourage its members to participate in local fundraising and awareness campaigns, such as the Cancer Awareness and Relief Fund in honor of women fighting cancer. Locals may create their own pink T-shirts and sell them to the public. At least 50 percent of the funds must be donated to women’s cancer organizations.