Think Pink and Green on Sunday

The Oakland Athletics is sponsoring its 15th annual Breast Cancer Awareness Day on Sunday at O.co Coliseum, a day-long celebration of survivorship honoring those who have courageously battled breast cancer.

The event raises funds to support research, education, advocacy and free services for cancer patients and their families throughout the Bay Area.

Roughly a half-hour before the 1:05 p.m. game between the A’s and Tampa Bay Rays, more than 350 Bay Area breast cancer survivors will form a symbolic human ribbon on the field in dedication of hope and survival, followed by the release of white doves to serve as a symbol of hope.

A local breast cancer survivor will be throwing out the ceremonial first pitch of the game and a check will be presented to representatives from the American Cancer Society and Cancer Prevention Institute of California.

For the 10th straight year, the A’s will donate $5,000 as a part of “A Gift of Faith” grant to a local charity in memory of longtime KTVU Channel 2 reporter, the late Faith Fancher.

This year's grant will be presented to Breast Cancer Connections, a local grassroots organization that provides comprehensive, personalized services to those suffering from breast cancer.

Rita Williams of the Friends of Faith, last year’s “A Gift of Faith” grant recipient, will present this year’s grant to a representative from Breast Cancer Connections.

All proceeds from the sale of commemorative pins, hats, pink jerseys and heart ribbon pendants, an A's autographed quilt raffle and fan and sponsor support will benefit the American Cancer Society and the Cancer Prevention Institute of California.

Since 1999, the A's have raised more than $1.25 million to help further advance breast cancer education and research.