MOUNT Gambier residents can unite in the fight for a cure for cancer today by purchasing a daffodil at any one of a number of local businesses.
Cancer Council’s annual Daffodil Day is one of the largest national fundraising events in the Southern Hemisphere and a chance for all Australians to support those impacted by cancer.
This year Cancer Council SA hopes to raise more than $450,000 across the state and local coordinator Maxine Tuffnell is confident Mount Gambier’s daffodils will sell out fast.
“Daffodils will be available at Chapmans Newsagency, the main post office, Mount Gambier Central and People’s Choice Credit Union,” Ms Tuffnell said.
“They will be on sale from around 9am until they sell out and they usually sell out pretty quickly.”
Other fundraising merchandise including teddy bears, daffodil pins, pens and key chains will be available for purchase, with all funds donated to cancer support services.
“We have a good range of merchandise this year and all funds raised will go toward the running costs of Greenhill Lodge in Adelaide,” Ms Tuffnell said.
“The lodge is accomodation for country people who need to travel to Adelaide for treatment – so when you buy a daffodil or a bear you are supporting locals impacted by cancer.”
One in two Australian men and one in three Australian women will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime.
This year alone it is estimated over 9,700 South Australians will be diagnosed with cancer.
Cancer Council SA chief executive Lincoln Size said Daffodil Day was a chance for South Australians to publicly show their commitment to a cancer free future and support those battling the disease.
“Sadly, all of us know someone who has experienced the devastating impacts of cancer firsthand,” he said.
“The money raised through Daffodil Day will fund Cancer Council SA’s vital research, support services and our public education and prevention campaigns.
“This year’s theme is ‘For Someone I Know’ – by showing support for someone you know, you can help beat cancer and create a better, cancer-free future for all.”
