Share the power

of the flower

THE Cancer Council’s Western Regional office is encouraging local residents to share their stories of hope, inspiration and what Daffodil Day means to them in the lead-up to this year’s annual cancer fundraiser. Daffodil Day falls this year on Friday, August 28.

Community Relations Co-ordinator at the Cancer Council’s western regional office, says one in two Australians are diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85. In the Western region, more than 1500 residents are diagnosed with cancer every year – an alarming statistic.

“There are lots of reasons why people get involved in Daffodil Day – you might be a cancer survivor, have lost someone you love to cancer, or know someone affected right now,” says cancer survivor and volunteer, Sam Tuersley.

“Other people love Daffodil Day as it’s a chance to indulge and buy fresh flowers; they might collect the ‘Dougal Bear’ stuffed toy every year, or just enjoy getting involved in a great community event,” he says.

Now in its 23rd year in New South Wales, Daffodil Day gives hope for a brighter, cancer-free future for ourselves, and for those we love. Daffodil Day volunteers and Cancer Council staff sell fresh daffodils and other goodies on the day to help raise funds for vital cancer research, prevention, information and support services.

Last year more than $8 million was raised nationally through Daffodil Day. These funds help the Cancer Council defeat cancer on a national, state and local level and have a direct impact on the people of the Western Region through local programs such as our Cancer Workshops which we hold across the Western Region.

Last week, for example, the Cancer Council ran two workshops in Broken Hill – one on “Understanding Cancer” and the other on “Living Well with Cancer”, both well received.

Over the next year, the Cancer Council will fund more than $14 million worth of cancer research in NSW alone. Money also goes towards services for cancer patients, their family and friends who need our support now, like the Cancer Helpline (13 11 20), as well as information and prevention programs.

All efforts are in the hope that fewer people will hear the words “you have cancer”.

You can donate or find out more about Daffodil Day by calling 1300 65 65 85 or visiting www.daffodilday.com.au