They came with stories of survival, stories of loss, and hope for a cure.

They came from nearby and far away, to walk in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk in Point Pleasant Beach on Sunday.

Peter Criss, former drummer with the rock band Kiss and current solo artist, was not playing the role of rock star at Sunday's walk. The Wall resident just wanted to blend in and walk and hope and contribute like everyone else. He identifies more than most people might guess with many other survivors in the crowd. He is a survivor of male breast cancer.

Individuals and groups from all over New Jersey, and at least a few from Pennsylvania, walked to raise money for the American Cancer Society.

The Point Pleasant Beach Chamber of Commerce and many businesses had readied the town for the special event, including painting fire hydrants and the Arnold Avenue center line pink.

Many businesses contributed small gifts and items that were distributed to walkers.