BY JEFF CHUDZINSKINorth Country This Week

GOUVERNEUR -- It was a banner day for the Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Walk as several hundred advocates, supporters and survivors helped raise more than $95,000 during the organization's 25th anniversary event on Oct. 3. 

The fundraising efforts on the day helped bolster recents efforts further that brought more than $206,000 into the non-profit that supports families in Franklin, Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence Counties as hundreds of women battle breast and ovarian cancer. 

Board members said the organization has raised more $325,000 this year, which has allowed them to distribute more than $160,000 to families. 

During the annual walk, Board President Terry Pistolesi said the name may have changed but the mission remains the same, to provide love and support for those enduring under some of the most difficult circumstances. 

She said the first walk 25 years ago was a morning of "kindness, surprise, curiosity  and encouragement" as the board began their mission. 

The name may have changed and board members have come and gone but support from the community has remained, she said. 

"What hasn't changed in 25 years is the excitement, the passion, the surprise, encouragement and feeling of praise you all continue to give, just like at that very first walk. The mission to serve each and every breast cancer patient continues because all of you have come out today to make a difference this morning," she said. 

She thanked the countless volunteers and organizations that have assisted each year, saying their support through personal donations, golf tournaments and other events have enabled the group to support countless patients as they undergo treatment or recover, sometimes from a years-long battle. 

Pistolesi also thanked the main sponsors who supported the walk, the emergency responders, Gouverneur DPW, Gouverneur and State Police and Gouverneur Fire who blocked roads briefly to ensure safe passage for walkers. 

Committee member Tammy Blevins, a survivor herself, also spoke prior to the walk. 

She said the group hoped to honor the "strength, courage and hope" of survivors and those battling the disease. 

"Their journeys inspire us to celebrate life, cherish every moment and remind those still fighting that they are never alone," she said. 

To support the Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Walk or seek assistance during or post-treatment, visit https://www.gouverneurbreastovariancancerfund.com/