In recognition of Women's History Month, the Town of Hempstead honored 11 women who have made outstanding contributions to their communities. Three of the honorees share a special bond not only because they are sisters, they also possess the courage and fortitude that enabled them to make a difference in the lives of others.

Jane Stanczuk, Kathleen Sarna and Lucille Montrony all received a diagnosis of breast cancer. Through their determination, they all beat the disease, but just beating cancer didn't seem to be enough for these three determined women.

In 1999, Stanczuk, Sarna and Montrony formed the Three Strohm Sisters Family Foundation, which raises money for breast cancer research. Since that time, the foundation has raised over $250,000 with proceeds donated to the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City and other worthy cancer organizations.

In addition, the sisters also help other women with breast cancer by sharing their own experiences, accompanying women on visits to doctors and supporting their needs.

At Hempstead Town Hall on Tuesday, Stanczuk, Sarna and Montrony all received the Town of Hempstead Pathfinder Award, which is awarded to women who have made significant achievements in a variety of areas. The three Strohm sisters were honored in the humanitarian category.

"These are remarkable times and women are achieving goals that were unattainable a generation ago. I know that future generations of women will be limited only by their imaginations and the scope of their dreams," said Town of Hempstead Supervisor Kate Murray, the first woman supervisor in town history. "The women we are recognizing this year have made profound contributions to our communities and have proven themselves role models and inspirations to us all."

The Strohm sisters hold events like an annual dinner dance, a Chinese auction and comedy night to help raise money for breast cancer research. Their efforts have made a difference in the lives of others, but they aren't the type to rest on their success. The sisters will continue to raise money to help other women and hopefully, one day, find a cure.

Their next event is a Chinese auction, which will be held on Wednesday, April 16 at Pompei Caterers in Franklin Square at 7 p.m. A donation of $35, which includes dinner is requested. For ticket information, call 561-3512.

To learn more about the Three Strohm Sisters Family Foundation, visit their website at www.threestrohmsisters.org.