Our Why

Meet the Officers behind the SPPD Pink Patch Project Campaign

Darin McDonald
Patrol Officer

"I have been helping raise money for the last three years after I lost my father in my early 20s to cancer and since losing him, I have lost other family members and friends to this dreadful disease. I was amazed at the strength and courageous fight these warriors have.

Since then, I have personally committed to charities by giving my time and financial support. I wanted to do more and learned of the Pink Patch Project in 2019. I worked with the Saint Paul Police Department administration, and with the support of the Saint Paul Police Federation, made it a reality.

I am happy to say we are now in the third year of this campaign to raise money for Hopes Chest and Angel Foundation. Both of these local Twin Cities charities were chosen for the support and financial assistance they provide to Breast Cancer survivors and their families.

We can do more and will do more. Thank you for your support.

Bryanna Sandquist
Sergeant

I have been helping raise money for The Pink Patch Project for the last three years because of my family history.

I have an aunt that is a Breast Cancer Survivor, another aunt who is currently in treatment for Metastatic Breast Cancer, and my sister who passed away from Breast Cancer.

I proudly wear the Pink Patch on my uniform during the month of October to represent my resilient family members and to raise awareness.

With The Pink Patch Project, we can support research and help with the financial burdens that each person faces, along with their family, during an emotional time.

Colleen Rooney
Sergeant

"I have been helping raise money for the Pink Patch Project for the last three years. Both my sister-in-law and my aunt are survivors of Breast Cancer.

I wear the Pink Patch on my uniform through the month of October for Breast Cancer Awareness and to show support for the Pink Patch Project.

I support the research and assistance with financial burdens that survivors of Breast Cancer have in finding a cure for this disease!"

Mark Grundhauser
Patrol Officer

"My wife, Chelsie, had stage 4 metastatic breast cancer for 2.5 years. She succumbed to the disease in December 2018.

I know the emotional and financial burden of this deadly disease and have made it my mission to help other breast cancer fighters and survivors in the best way I can.

One way I am helping the fight this disease is by wearing my Pink Patch during the month of October for awareness, and by selling as many pink patches as I can. Through this campaign, we can help researchers and advocate agencies help breast cancer fighters and survivors."