Supporting Breast Cancer Research Through Community Efforts
With remarkable collaboration and community spirit, the auto repair industry is stepping up to raise significant funds for breast cancer vaccine research. By contributing $2 million, independent auto repair shops across North America are making a genuine impact on the efforts to combat this notorious disease.
The Brakes for Breasts Initiative
A unique fundraiser named Brakes for Breasts is making waves, with participants across the United States and Canada stepping in to support breast cancer vaccine trials. As part of this initiative, automotive repair facilities, including Precision Tune Auto Care, give customers free brake pads, while they only incur the labor and additional parts costs. Importantly, each participating shop donates 10% of the entire brake job to the Cleveland Clinic's Breast Cancer Vaccine Research Fund.
From Humble Beginnings to Major Contributions
The Brakes for Breasts fundraiser started in 2011 with just five shops in Cleveland raising $10,000. Today, the collective efforts have raised over $2.1 million, transforming Brakes for Breasts into the Cleveland Clinic’s largest third-party fundraising initiative. More significantly, it has become a crucial partner in developing the first-ever vaccine aimed at preventing triple-negative breast cancer, known as one of the most aggressive types of the illness.
Continuing Commitment to Cancer Research
As of now, the total contribution from participating shops has reached an impressive $2,137,101. This amount is a testament to the dedication and commitment of the auto repair community to the fight against breast cancer.
What Makes Brakes for Breasts Unique?
Brakes for Breasts is distinctive from other breast cancer fundraising campaigns in multiple ways:
- The Dr. Tuohy Lab at the Cleveland Clinic has developed a vaccine that effectively prevents breast cancer in laboratory animals.
- Phase 1a of human trials commenced in 2021, marking successful results by early 2023.
- Now, clinical trials are advancing through phases 1a, 1b, and 1c.
- The lab is currently preparing for the upcoming Phase 2 launch.
- Every cent raised is entirely directed towards breast cancer vaccine research at the Cleveland Clinic.
- The initiative includes independent shops, reflecting the heartfelt commitment of their owners to support a critical cause.
Get Involved: Find a Participating Shop
If you’re interested in supporting this noteworthy cause, you can easily find a participating shop near you. Community involvement not only contributes to critical research but also creates awareness around breast cancer prevention.
Precision Tune Auto Care's Role
Precision Tune Auto Care in Hixson is currently the only shop in Tennessee that has committed to donating proceeds for this meaningful work. The list of other participating locations can be accessed online to explore how local shops are contributing to this life-saving initiative.
About Precision Tune Auto Care
Precision Tune Auto Care in Hixson has catered to the Chattanooga metro area for over a decade. They are recognized for their reliable services and transparency in automotive care. Owner Ryan Ratkowski has cultivated a team dedicated to educational customer service and community involvement. This shop has received multiple industry recognitions, noting their excellence in automotive repair.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary goal of the Brakes for Breasts initiative?
The primary goal is to raise funds for breast cancer vaccine research to develop a vaccine capable of preventing the disease.
How much has been raised through the Brakes for Breasts fundraiser?
To date, more than $2.1 million has been raised through contributions from independent auto repair shops across North America.
What makes the Dr. Tuohy Lab significant in this initiative?
The lab has successfully developed a vaccine that has proven effective in preventing breast cancer in laboratory animals and is progressing through human trials.
Can anyone participate in the Brakes for Breasts initiative?
Yes, any auto repair shop can participate in this initiative and support the fundraising efforts through their services.
How can I find a participating shop?
You can browse the list of participating shops online to find locations near you that are involved in the Brakes for Breasts fundraising efforts.
