Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk at Jones Beach on Tap for Sunday

Thousands of supporters are set to gather at Sunday for the American Cancer Society's annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk.

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer started in Boston in 1984. Massachusetts cancer survivor Margery Gould Rath started a walk to raise funds for the American Cancer Society while celebrating with fellow survivors. Since its inception, the walk has become a national icon, attracting thousands of walkers to events all over the country.

Sunday's 5K walk will take place at the Jones Beach boardwalk. Walkers can begin anytime between 8 a.m. -11 a.m. As of Thursday, the Long Island chapter of Making Strides Against Breast Cancer has raised $1,289,426 from 2011 fundraising with more donations coming in.

Long Beach resident Jessica Ostrowski has been involved with the American Cancer Society for seven years. Ostrowski found it was important to raise awareness after her mother passed away from breast cancer when she was 14.

"It made a serious impact on my life," said Ostrowski. "Awareness is important. You never know who has somebody close to them, or even themselves, that is effected by cancer. No one wants to be alone in a fight for their life."

Throughout her college years, Ostrowski dedicated time to help organize the annual walk with Relay for Life, where she worked hand in hand with the American Cancer Society.

"The other day I got an email from someone who was a very good friend in high school, telling me how much I inspired him," said Ostrowski. "Recently, his aunt was diagnosed with cancer. She has four kids, and his family is taking it so bad in regards to staying strong for her. He told me my strength had inspired him and gave him strength to hold up for his family. Just my story and being involved helped a family cope."

"I think events like this are a huge asset," Ostrowski added. "Not only does it raise money but it brings people together for a common cause and shows a huge support network for people who may not have one personally."

With time, Ostrowski hopes her efforts, among the millions of others in support of the American Cancer Society, will make a difference for those struggling families.

"My hopes for the future are simple and optimistic like assumably everyone else's," she said. "I hope we cure cancer and no more families are broken by it's wrath."