AAA Tow Trucks Go Pink For Breast Cancer Awareness

DETROIT (CBS Detroit) Think burly tow truck drivers and pink don't mix? Think again.

AAA Michigan has tow trucks "going pink" to raise awareness for breast cancer month.

For the first time in AAA Michigan's nearly 100-year history, it is painting its classic red, white and blue tow trucks pink in collaboration with the American Cancer Society.

AAA's new pink tow trucks will service downtown Detroit throughout the month of October. The two pink-outfitted trucks will assist those who live and work in the area, including downtown Detroit's busy financial, entertainment, sports and cultural districts.

"Our hope is that these pink tow trucks will garner attention and spread awareness to help in the fight against breast cancer, which is the second leading cause of cancer death in women," said Gerry Gutowski, senior vice president, AAA Automotive Services, AAA Michigan.

In addition to the pink trucks, AAA will also play an integral role in helping to host the more than 15,000 walkers expected on October 13h for the Makes Strides to End Breast Cancer Walk, starting and ending at Ford Field in Downtown Detroit. AAA is a sponsor of the event; it will host its own team of walkers to raise money for the American Cancer Society and will also provide free roadside assistance to any walkers who may have car troubles with lockouts, flat tires or dead batteries. Both pink tow trucks will be on display at the event and will be available to assist anyone, both members and nonmembers, in need.

"I am a cancer survivor and I know how much cancer affects everyone, from yourself to your family members and friends," said Brent Stahlheber, senior vice president and chief brand officer for AAA Michigan. He will lead the AAA Michigan team at the American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk in Detroit.

AAA will also paint tow trucks pink in both Chicago and Orlando to help support the American Cancer Society's walks in those markets. This tri-city initiative, and related courtesy services to the three Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walks, is part of AAA's long-standing commitment to community service and its new partnership with the American Cancer Society.