The tradition of “Pink Out the Park” continued as the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, in collaboration with the Detroit Tigers and McLaren Health Care – the official health care system of the Tigers – hosted a special event during a game, earlier this month. This annual event has been instrumental in promoting breast health awareness for the past 11 years. The game kicked off with a heartfelt pre-game ceremony on the field, dedicated to honoring breast cancer survivors.

Comerica Landing embraced the Pink Out the Park theme for the “Party in the Park,” offering attendees an atmosphere complete with a specialty cocktail, $5 food and drink specials, and a DJ.

Throughout the game and on the concourse, fans had the opportunity to participate in various initiatives, including a ceremonial first pitch and an on-field recognition ceremony that paid tribute to the dedicated members of the Karmanos Breast Cancer Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) across the cancer center’s network throughout the state.

“Pink Out the Park is a powerful way to unite our community and honor the strength of those battling breast cancer. Together, we can make a difference and support the fight against this disease,” said Kevin Brown, Director of Community Impact for Ilitch Sports and Entertainment. “We are honored to join forces with the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute and McLaren Health Care in raising awareness and funds in an annual demonstration of solidarity and support for breast cancer patients and survivors.” 

During the fourth inning, Tigers fans were encouraged to hold up “Pink Out the Park” cheer cards featuring the names of loved ones who had bravely faced breast cancer. This touching tribute offered a moment of reflection and remembrance. Both teams joined in this meaningful annual recognition. As the game concluded, attendees were treated to a spectacular display of Friday Night Fireworks, a first-time feature at Pink Out the Park events, captivating the crowd from the outfield.

Dr. Eric Brown, co-leader of the Breast Cancer MDT at Karmanos, expressed his admiration for the spirit and perseverance displayed by those undergoing breast cancer treatment, saying, “I draw inspiration from the unwavering strength and determination of the women and men fighting breast cancer. Cancer does not discriminate based on age, religion, skin color, or income level, but neither does resilience and toughness. Pink Out the Park provides a wonderful platform to honor and celebrate these patients, their incredible strength, and their victories. It is a true privilege to be entrusted by patients to be part of their journey. They are my heroes.” 

To commemorate the event, the first 15,000 fans received a special Pink Out the Park pullover. Additionally, exclusive Pink Out the Park ticket packages were made available, with each package including tickets for the game, a stylish pink Tigers bucket hat, and a $5 donation to the Karmanos Cancer Institute.

Opportunities for further contributions to breast cancer awareness were readily accessible throughout the event. Fans could make donations by scanning QR codes available at the Karmanos tables strategically placed around the Comerica Park concourse. Moreover, a portion of the 50/50 raffle sales was designated for donations to the Karmanos Cancer Institute.

Breast cancer, excluding skin cancer, remains the most prevalent cancer among American women, as noted by the American Cancer Society (ACS). 

Patient referrals are not needed to receive a screening mammography at Karmanos or McLaren locations. To request a mammogram appointment or learn more, visit karmanos.org/cancerscreening or call 1-800-KARMANOS.

Watch highlights from the event, here.