Published: September 08, 2008 05:34 pm      

Firefighters raise funds for breast cancer research

PITTSBORO — The fire department here has teamed up with the Susan B. Komen for the Cure Foundation to raise money for breast cancer awareness and research.

Throughout the month of October, Pittsboro firefighters will be wearing special “Firefighters for a Cure” T-shirts and sweatshirts to show their support.

“We’ve never done this before,” said Pittsboro Fire Lt. Jerry Johnson. “We just want to raise awareness and help the foundation.”

Johnson said the department came up with the design. The shirts are pink with a hot pink breast cancer logo with the fire department’s logo. On the right sleeve, it says “Real firefighters wear pink” and on the back of the shirt it has the fire station’s number. Cost is $15 for T-shirts and $24 for sweatshirts. Proceeds will go to the Komen foundation.

“All the guys were willing to wear the shirts on duty in support of breast cancer,” Johnson said. “Everyone’s been really touched by the project and all jumped together to participate.”

Johnson said the department began selling the shirts last month and has already sold 200 T-shirts and sweatshirts. The department’s goal is to sell at least 500 shirts.

To purchase a shirt, visit the fire station at 400 E. Main St., call the station for more information at 892-4386, or visit the website at www.pittsborofire.org.

andrea.hirsch@flyergroup.com