Pink Heals Tour stops in southeast Wisconsin

WAUWATOSA (WITI) -- It's a sight that inspires hope, healing and love.

Two pink fire trucks and a pink bus made a stop at Froedtert Hospital’s Clinical Cancer Center Wednesday morning.  Firefighters were there to offer a warm welcome.

“The trucks are meant to honor people.  When we run into someone who's battled a difficult disease, we give them a big hug, and we want to recognize them,” said Lake Country firefighter Brad Bowen.

It's part of the national Pink Heals Tour, where firefighters and police officers drive pink trucks to show their support for others battling cancer.  For the next week, they're touring the Badger state, raising money for Froedtert and organizations that provide cancer support.

“We give it right back to help people with counseling services, treatment, etc.  They're really a faith and a love truck,” said Bowen.

For survivors and those battling the disease, it's a sight that represents hope and healing.

“It is so moving, so touching, I tried not to cry when I came down here,” said cancer survivor Janie Hawthorne.

Hawthorne has been cancer-free for four years.  Like many others, she signed her name and her friends’ names on one of the trucks.

“I put one of my friend's name that I just lost in June, and another friend that is currently going through treatment,” said Hawthorne.

It’s a moving display that reads they're not alone, first responders at their sides with smiles and hugs at every stop.

The Pink Heals Tour also made a stop at the Milwaukee Fire Department Wednesday.

This Saturday, the tour will also be making a stop in downtown Delafied.  A motorcycle ride and other activities will start at noon on Wells Street.  The event ends at 10 p.m.

For other stops in Wisconsin over the coming week, click here.