Coos Bay Firefighters go Pink in October, Oct. 3

News release from Randy Miles, President, Coos Bay Professional Firefighters Association, IAFF Local 2935. Across North America, fire fighters are wearing pink to support the fight against Breast Cancer. In addition to fighting fires, Coos Bay firefighters are sporting the color pink throughout October in efforts to fight breast and other cancers. Firefighters exposed to carcinogens and other chemicals while on the job are disproportionately diagnosed with breast cancer – just one of many cancers linked to the work firefighters do. With one in eight women diagnosed each year, an estimated 232,340 cases of breast cancer and 39,620 deaths will be reported in 2013. Among all women affected, 85 percent have no family history. Fire fighters are motivated to get involved for many reasons, and often it’s because they have been personally affected by the disease. CBPFA, Local 2935 has several members whose families have been affected by breast cancer. “We are supporting breast cancer awareness and prevention by encouraging others to give so that no breast cancer patient goes without life-saving treatments or having hope for a cure.” Everyone is at risk for breast cancer. The two most important risk factors are being female and getting older. Most women diagnosed with breast cancer have no other known factors. To help reduce your risk, be sure to maintain a healthy weight, eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, exercise and limit alcohol consumption. Your Coos Bay firefighters encourage everyone in this community to participate in breast cancer awareness and prevention activities. Pink shirts will be available to purchase at the Coos Bay Fire Dept. Fire Prevention Week Open House on the evening of Oct. 8, at the Main Fire Station at 450 Elrod. All proceeds from sale of pink shirts will be distributed locally to continue fighting breast cancer. For more information, contact Randy Miles, IAFF Local 2935 President at (541) 297-0935.