Cancer has touched all of our lives at some level.
My wonderful, wacky German grandmother passed away years ago from what began as breast cancer and eventually spread throughout her entire body. What I remember the most is that, no matter what, she never gave up the fight. Thankfully, as a result of the progress we have made in cancer research, our cancer survivor numbers are growing and we are celebrating their victories every chance we get.
Normally, we here at Ground Force are focused on designing, welding, assembling, and all of the things we do to create of our “larger than life” mine support equipment. But today, we are celebrating breast cancer survivors, and in a big way. We are currently completing an order for three 320-ton pink dump bodies, designed to fit the Komatsu 930E truck. Weighing in at just under 60,000 lbs., they are extremely light comparatively to other dump bodies in their class. Their glossy pink shade and ribbon on both sides represent our company’s tribute to the courage and indomitable spirit of millions of women in their fight against breast cancer and their perseverance to find a cure.
Eric Robbs, one of our own Ground Force engineers, has been working for months on designing the 320-ton dump beds. These dump beds are special, not only because of their bright pink hue and the iconic breast cancer awareness ribbons boasted on the sides, but they also have deep meaning for Eric. Although the original request for the color came from the customer, the recipient of these extraordinary dump beds, the project is especially near and dear to Eric. His own mother, Kathy Kadow, fought breast cancer and, up to this point, is now ten months in remission. Like this dump body, Kathy kept her composure under immense pressure throughout her struggle with breast cancer and is now a tireless advocate for survivors like herself and for those continuing to battle the illness.
These stunning pink dump bodies were purchased by Wheeler Machinery, a CAT dealer in Utah. The first body departed from our facility amid much local praise and admiration in early May and will make its way to one of the largest copper mines in North America.
Ground Force is always proud to showcase our innovative equipment, but we are especially proud of this achievement and feel blessed to share this story. Thank you to the copper mine, Wheeler Machinery, and especially to Kathy Kadow for your incredible courage and fortitude.
Eric Robbs, GFW Engineer
