GFR firefighters are “in the pink” this October

Gainesville Fire Rescue firefighters dedicate their careers to protecting our neighbors from all hazards including fires, traffic accidents, and medical emergencies. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and we’re committed to raising awareness about this deadly disease. 

Throughout the month, GFR firefighters and staff are wearing pink T-shirts while on duty or out in the community and our trucks will display pink decals to help raise awareness. The American Cancer Society estimates this year 276,480 women and 2,620 men will receive a new diagnosis of invasive breast cancer. Approximately 42,170 women and 520 men will die from breast cancer in 2020.  

According to the CDC, the main factors that influence breast cancer risk are being female and getting older. However, everyone can reduce their risk by following some basic healthy lifestyle recommendations such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, exercising, and limiting alcohol consumption.

Firefighters know all too well the trauma and the challenge of a cancer diagnosis. Firefighters are at increased risk for numerous cancers. Studies show cancer can be directly linked to carcinogens and other chemicals found in smoke and other materials regularly encountered at fire scenes.

Each year, the names of firefighters who have died of occupational cancer are etched onto the granite walls of the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) Fallen Firefighter Memorial Wall of Honor in Colorado Springs, Colorado, alongside the names of thousands of other firefighters who have died in the line of duty.

Please join us this month in wearing pink!

For more information, please contact Assistant Chief Stephen Hesson at 352-318-5982