Irish Cancer Society appeals for support for most important Daffodil Day ever

The Irish Cancer Society is urging people in Westmeath to get behind a very different Daffodil Day this year, as street sales and events are not possible due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Though the flagship fundraiser is unable to go ahead in its traditional way involving street sales of fresh daffodils or daffodil pins, and community events, there are many ways for people to get involved with this year’s Daffodil Day, Friday March 26, supported by Boots Ireland.

Around 595 people in Westmeath will receive a cancer diagnosis each year and this Daffodil Day is an important chance to raise funds for services and research and to send people affected by cancer a message of support.

There are many ways for communities to get involved with Daffodil Day, by hosting virtual fundraisers and collections, purchasing items from the Daffodil Day online shop, or making donations. Go to cancer.ie/daffodil day to find out more.

Throughout the pandemic, the Irish Cancer Society has provided vital services and support to cancer patients and their families across Westmeath. Services like Night Nursing, the Freephone Support Line: 1800 200 700 and Volunteer Driver service are available because of the vital funds raised on Daffodil Day.

Rosemary Simmons, fundraising lead at the Irish Cancer Society, said: “The people of Westmeath have always been generous in their support of Daffodil Day, but this year more than ever, we need your help.

"Although we cannot take to the streets to sell Daffodils, or host coffee mornings with friends, there are still meaningful ways for communities to raise funds this year.

“Because of the additional anxieties a cancer diagnosis during Covid-19 brings, cancer patients need your support more than ever before. Please get involved with Daffodil Day, to ensure nobody in Westmeath has to go through cancer alone.”

This year marks Boots Ireland’s fourth year of sponsoring Daffodil Day, which is an extension of a well-established partnership with the Irish Cancer Society that began in 2012.

Through the partnership, Boots Ireland is committed to increasing awareness, helping support people affected by cancer and promoting cancer prevention.

The 89 Boots stores nationwide will be raising funds by selling Daffodil pins and hosting virtual fundraisers. To find your nearest store or to learn more about the support of Daffodil Day, visit boots.ie.

If you have concerns or questions about cancer, or to learn more about support services available in your area, contact the Irish Cancer Society Support Line on Freephone:1800 200 700.

For more information visit cancer.ie/daffodilday.