Recent National Breast Cancer Foundation studies have shown that a staggering one in eight women will test positive for breast cancer, and a man’s lifetime risk of breast cancer is about 1 in 833. As far as Groveland is concerned, that is one man and one woman too many. This year, the City of Groveland and its Woodard and Curran partners, seek to show support of those in the community whose lives have been touched by this dreadful disease, by dedicating a pink hydrant in front of Lake David Park, located at 450 South Lake Avenue, as a symbol of civic camaraderie.
When hearing of this effort, Vice Mayor Mike Smith conveyed, “I have personally been touched twice by breast cancer. The first time was my mother who died when she was 48 years old, only 6 months after the birth of her first grandchild. The second time was my wife, who is almost three years cancer free. It is good that we remind the community that this is a disease which can affect anyone, and it is important to show our support and remembrance for those who have been impacted by breast cancer.”
While it’s important to note fire hydrants should not be painted recreationally by residents, as their colors specifically relate to water flow pressure and could cause a delay in emergency responses, Groveland and Woodard and Curran specifically chose the Lake David Park fire hydrant, due to its strategic placement in the park for best community access.
Their goal for establishing a commemorative pink fire hydrant is a two-fold approach to connecting with the community. The first goal is to send a message of solidarity and comfort to breast cancer survivors and their families. The second goal is to encourage the community to take preventative measures through early detection with a primary care physician. Despite research showing an estimated 43,600 people are projected to succumb to breast cancer this year alone, there are currently over 3.8 million breast cancer survivors nationwide, thanks to early detection methods.
Whether someone has lost a loved one from breast cancer, received treatment, or celebrating remission, the interconnected effects of this disease impact the wellbeing of millions of community members each year.
The City and Woodard and Curran invite breast cancer survivors, survivors’ families, and those who stand in remembrance of lost loved ones, to sign the pink hydrant at Lake David Park with messages of support and encouragement for others. Those who participate in the signage are asked to use a black fine point sharpie to maximize space and submit photos of themselves by the hydrant, or an image of their special message, to the City of Groveland’s Facebook page @cityofGroveland
This interactive community message project will be a month-long effort, continuing from October 25th through November 25th.
