October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and PGFD is Going Pink!!!

MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930

The Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department will join with others across the Country in raising the awareness of breast cancer. October is breast cancer awareness month and we will help to highlight that one in eight women will develop breast cancer and every three minutes a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer. Breast cancer, not only effects women, but a percentage of men as well. Approximately 1,600 men will become breast cancer victims with about 400 diagnoses resulting in death. Though much research and strides have been made to cure the disease, much more research is needed to aid in the education and prevention to help save lives from this type of cancer.

This year the Fire/EMS Department will participate in the nationwide campaign for breast cancer awareness with members having the option of donning pink shirts Sunday, October 16, 2011 through Saturday, October 22, 2011. Prince George's County Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor stated, "The color 'pink' has become symbolic of breast cancer awareness. I am authorizing the change in work uniforms during this time to help with awareness efforts."

A member of our Department has designed T-shirts that reflect our advocacy for breast cancer awareness. The shirts will display a symbol of care and compassion for those affected while demonstrating a level of professionalism to be seen by a member of the community.


Chief Bashoor stated, "If not you, we all know someone who has been affected by breast cancer. This is an opportunity for us to show our support and I know that the men and women of this Department will do their part to support this worthy cause."

There are two T-shirts approved; one designed to be worn by all members of the Department; career, civilian and volunteer members or one designed for career personnel with a specially designed Local 1619 logo.  Additional information about the Department's efforts for Breast Cancer awareness and the need to raise funds for additional research will follow.