October is known throughout the United States and the world as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The goal of the month is to raise awareness and research funds for the treatment of breast cancer, which affects 1 in 8 women in America. Nationwide, there are expected to be over 300,000 new cases of breast cancer diagnosed this year. Breast cancer is one of several cancers that primarily impact women.
The Wellesley Police Department, along with many other agencies, have recognized this month by the wearing of a pink pin on the police officer uniform during October. While the pin primarily represents breast cancer, it is a conversation starter for all types of cancer that can affect women.
In 2019, the Wellesley Police Department developed a pink Wellesley Police patch. These patches are being sold at the station, as well as other popular Wellesley stores for $10. Proceeds from these sales are donated to the Julie Fund, a Wellesley based charity that supports education, advocacy, research, and patient support for women battling cancer. The fund was established in the memory of Wellesley resident Julie McAvinn, who passed away in 2004 from ovarian cancer. The Julie Fund has donated some four million dollars in the fight against cancer since its inception in 2004.
In addition to a pin, Wellesley Police Officers also wear pink patches on their uniform throughout October.
For the past few years, the Wellesley Police Department paints a cruiser pink for October. This year, Chief Pilecki had cruiser 1420, a Ford Mustang Mach-E electric vehicle go pink for October. 1420 is primarily used by Officer Chris Fritts and Officer Mark Knapp as we continue to test and evaluate a fully electric (Pink!) cruiser for day to day patrol operations.
For the past few years, the Wellesley Police Department paints a cruiser pink for October. This year, Chief Pilecki had cruiser 1420, a Ford Mustang Mach-E electric vehicle go pink for October. 1420 is primarily used by Officer Chris Fritts and Officer Mark Knapp as we continue to test and evaluate a fully electric (Pink!) cruiser for day to day patrol operations.