Clovis firefighters sporting pink shirts help raise money for non-profit

CLOVIS, Calif. (KFSN) -- A fire truck is being used to save lives by fighting for a cure. If you take a closer look at the rig, in addition to the pink paint job, messages of hope are written on every inch of real estate.

The Fresno County chapter of Pink Heals is part of a nationwide effort to support those battling life-threatening diseases.

Fresno County Pink Heals President Lisa Benham-Lewis said, "It doesn't matter what color the ribbon is, we want to support everyone."

Benham started the Fresno County chapter six years ago and since then they have not only raised money for local non-profits, they have conducted countless home visits that show the power of community.

"We've done everything from someone that was just diagnosed three weeks ago to someone who the family is saying goodbye to."

"The look on their face and the way that they feel when you hug them and give them that rose it's pretty unbelievable," said Captain Nolan Stempson.

The newest addition to the Pink Fleet is named Karyn, a Dodge Charger, and right now pink heals is hoping that you can help paint her pink.

When Clovis Police Chief Basgall donated the cruiser, Benham said there was no question they would name her after Karyn Jakobs. They met two years ago when Pink Heals did her home visit.

"We walked away and there was something pulling us back to her," said Benham.

Karyn became a volunteer, organizing home visits for others and speaking as a Pink Heals advocate.

"She spoke from the heart about total strangers, showing up at her house and the love and support she felt," said Benham.

Karyn lost her battle with thyroid cancer October of 2016, but Pink Heals is making sure her memory lives on.