LIVONIA (WWJ) - A bright, "pinked out" Metro Detroit police car will soon be seen at local events as a way to honor survivors and educate the community about breast cancer.
The Livonia Police Department unveiled the eye-catching cruiser on Thursday during a ceremony at their headquarters off Farmington Road.
Chief Thomas Goralski said the car was designed in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which runs through October.
"In our community, breast cancer has affected so many friends and so many families," Goralski said to a crowd outside the department. "Our police department feels the support from our community every day. So what we want to do was give back by doing this -- raising awareness for breast cancer."
Officials said the brightly-colored car serves as a reminder about how important early detection and receiving care of the highest quality in a timely manner.
"This patrol car serves as a way to honor survivors, remember those we’ve lost, and support those currently fighting this terrible disease and the progress made to cure this disease," officials said. "We also encourage those around us to see the car as a reminder to act and get screened!"
Mayor Maureen Miller Brosnan expressed her gratitude that the latest technologies, information and methodologies for treatment are available right in the community.
"What we're hoping is too avoid those devastating diagnosis and the way to do that is through early detection," she said. "We're fortunate in the city of Livonia to have two fantastic hospitals with deep presence here, in St. Mary's Hospital and in Beaumont, offering exceptional care. There aren't a lot of communities that have that kind of quality health care available to residents."
The pink vehicle expected to be out at local events starting this Saturday, October 8th, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the department's Faith and Blue Event located at Nehasil Park.
Authorities said Livonia Police Breast Cancer Awareness wristbands will also be available for a suggestion donation of $10 at the department and at the events.
All funds raised will be split between the American Cancer Society and Livonia’s two Cancer Centers at Trinity Health and Beaumont.
Goralski said the car will be out and used almost every day.
"This scout car that we wrapped in pink is hopefully going to save some lives and I know it will," he said.
For more information on Breast Cancer, resources or support, please visit https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer.html