In Tallahassee, Florida, local store Garnet and Gold has turned its focus from profit to purpose following the breast cancer diagnosis of Florida State University softball Head Coach Lonni Alameda. Store manager Krislyn Kelley shared the store’s immediate response: “we need to do something to show her that we love and support her.” This sentiment has fueled the production of special pink and white shirts that not only feature the iconic Florida State “FS” logo but also a pink ribbon with Alameda’s initials and her signature ponytail.
The initiative received swift approval from both Alameda and Florida State’s licensing department, leading to a surge in their production. The shirts have become highly popular, raising approximately $15,000 for Tallahassee Memorial Hospital’s Walker Breast Program in under a month. These shirts have made their way into the hearts of the community, with purchases by FSU recruits and high school teams alike. The Florida State baseball team even surprised Alameda by wearing the shirts on a joint trip to Louisville, showcasing the solidarity across the sports community.
Coach Alameda expressed appreciation for the support, stating, “I’ve just really appreciated that we’re bringing a mindset to something I’m going through, but something so many other people are going through right now.” This initiative highlights the communal effort in not only supporting Alameda in her personal battle but also broader awareness for breast cancer and its impact on many lives.
As the Tallahassee Regional kicks off at JoAnne Graf Field, attendees can expect a vibrant display of pink alongside the traditional garnet and gold, representing both a fight against cancer and a united community effort. “You don’t fight alone,” Alameda emphasized, reflecting a message of hope and solidarity that resonates deeply within the community.
The growing success of this initiative underlines the importance of rallying around those in need, offering support through visible acts of solidarity that can inspire others facing similar challenges.