Kanakaredes helps Hanes fight breast cancer

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. Hanes announced that for the second year, it will offer a special "pink collection" of panties, bras, socks, and graphic tees -- including three t-shirts exclusively designed by Melina Kanakaredes, to help raise breast cancer awareness. Select items from the The Hanes "pink collection" have already begun rolling out in stores, including Hanes socks available at Walmart, the company reported. This fall, the entire collection including Kanakaredes' tees will be available on Hanes.com and in select stores.

"I am thrilled to join Hanes and Susan G. Komen for the Cure to raise funds and awareness about breast cancer," Kanakaredes said.  "Like so many, I have been affected by the disease through the loss of family members and dear friends.  I was inspired to join this fight to celebrate survivors and to honor the memory of those we have lost, and it is my sincere hope that my inspiration is evident in the Hanes t-shirts I have designed."

Kanakeredes will also be featured in a series of Susan G. Komen for the Cure public service announcements dedicated to breast cancer awareness.  Starting in October for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Kanakaredes will support the cause in a new Hanes print advertising campaign created by The Martin Agency of Richmond, Va.

Hanes announced that it has also been named the official t-shirt of the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Series. Hanes t-shirts will be provided to the 1.5 million people expected to participate in the race series. In addition, the company will serve as the official apparel sponsor of Passionately Pink for the Cure, a fundraising program created by Komen to inspire breast cancer advocacy and honor those affected by the disease.