| | The Brown family, from left, AJ, Finley and Cooper, at the Nov. 5 Project Pink Wheels ceremony Photos Nick Marnell | | | | | | Is that really a pink fire engine that has been roaming the streets of Contra Costa County since the end of October?
As cancer is a leading cause of death among current and retired firefighters, and impacts many local residents, the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, in conjunction with United Professional Firefighters of Contra Costa County, Local 1230, unveiled Project Pink Wheels, a program to show support for all cancer warriors - current, recovered and those no longer with us.
"We wanted to bring awareness to the scourge of cancer that has affected so many in our area," district spokesman Steve Hill said.
The pink engine, which is not used in district operations, can be requested to transport patients to their first or final cancer treatment. When these events are scheduled again, Project Pink Wheels will be available for public health fairs, community festivals, parades, cancer events and other special requests. The pink engine also acts as arolling memorial to recognize the names of local cancer warriors.
Pink is typically the color associated with breast cancer, but the goal of Project Pink Wheels is to include all types of cancer.
Any resident of Lafayette, Moraga or Orinda who has been affected by cancer may request Project Pink Wheels transportation, a special appearance, or to sign their name to the engine. Contact Capt. Chris Leimpeter at contracostapink@yahoo.com. |