The Power of Pink

Naperville firefighter Brett Rosenwinkel knows he is responsible for more than just fighting fires.

"This is still part of my job," Rosenwinkel, 41, said last week while serving cotton candy at a wellness fair and fundraiser for women's cancer research. "It's not fire-related, but it's a good cause. I'm here for the cause."

The Naperville Firefighters Local 4302, in cooperation with the Naperville Fire Department, sponsored last week's fundraiser. Hundreds of residents — decked out in pink — attended the event in downtown Naperville. Also on hand were the Guardians of the Ribbon, a group of firefighters who tour the U.S. from August through October in pink fire trucks to generate cancer awareness.

Naperville resident Cathy Chaet and her 9-year-old daughter, Hannah, were among those attending the festivities, which included a performance by the Firefighters Highland Guard of Naperville, a bagpipe and percussion ensemble.

"I think people underestimate the power of raising awareness," Chaet said, adding that her mother recently died from cancer.

Four pink fire trucks were parked at the event, each covered with notes and signatures of survivors, supporters and family members of those afflicted with cancer.

Breast cancer survivor Lori Trier held her 3-year-old granddaughter, Alana, as the little girl scrawled a message on one of the bright pink trucks.

"You have to think positively," Trier said, offering advice to others battling cancer. "Take it one day at a time and you will overcome it. Cancer sucks."

All proceeds from the event stay within the Naperville community and benefit Edward Hospital's Women's Cancer Foundation and the American Cancer Society.