Firefighters with the Bainbridge Island Fire Department have been wearing pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month to help raise money for the Susan G. Komen Passionately Pink for the Cure campaign that funds both research for a cure, as well as treatment for under-insured men and women suffering from this disease.

The month of October has been utilized nationally in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness, and supported by the International Association of Firefighters as fire departments across the country wear pink. This particular cause is close to a few members of the fire department who have close family members fighting and surviving this disease.

The department’s health-wellness committee is taking the opportunity to remind the community of the importance of annual screening for cancers, such as breast, prostate, and colon, that appear to have a higher likelihood of successful treatment when identified in the early stages.

Donations for the Susan G. Komen campaign can be made online through www.passionatelypink.org, click on “give to a team” and search team name “Bainbridge Island IAFF Fire Department.” Donations are made under the team captain’s name, Firefighter Kyle Moerke. Checks written out to Susan G. Komen for the Cure can be dropped off at the department’s business office located at Station 21, 8895 Madison Ave. NE.