Wagga residents are being urged to donate to the Cancer Council or hold a fundraiser for Daffodil Day on Thursday (22 August).
Cancer Council Wagga Wagga will be stationed at Wagga Wagga Marketplace from 9 am to 4 pm to collect donations.
Wagga Cancer Council community fundraising coordinator Alanna La Cioppa said cancer took so much from people and their family, friends, neighbours and colleagues.
“By giving this Daffodil Day, we can help stop cancer from taking so much,” said Alanna.
“In 2022, Cancer Council and its research partners directed more than $61 million to research grants for vital research projects across Australia, but more is desperately needed.
“We can give to all the people who’ve been affected by a cancer diagnosis, whether that’s you or someone close to you. Giving money, a bunch of daffodils, your time, a hug, and hope is what Daffodil Day is all about.”
Alanna said the fundraiser was vital for the Wagga community as it raised funds for the local services around Riverina for cancer patients and their carers and raised awareness of the services.
“Cancer Council NSW works across four pillars: research, advocacy, prevention, and information and support,” Alanna said.
“This campaign gives locals an opportunity to have a conversation with myself or one of our volunteers, understand what is available to them, and raise awareness across their network.
“Grab a bunch of flowers and start the conversation.”
Cancer Council NSW director of research strategy and operations Associate Professor Andreas Behren said cancer research played a critical role for people affected by cancer, but there was still a long way to go.
“Together, through compassion and generosity, we want to raise funds this Daffodil Day that will enable some of our brightest minds to conduct world-class research and continue to reduce the devastating effect of cancer on our community,” said Associate Professor Behren.
According to the Cancer Council, 146 people are diagnosed with cancer every day in NSW. With the investment in research, significant advancements have been made in cancer prevention, screening, and treatment, which has helped increase survival rates from 51 per cent in the late 1980s to around 70 per cent.
Cancer Council aims to raise over $2.6 million across Australia this Daffodil Day.
You can support Daffodil Day by buying daffodils at a local Daffodil Day site, donating online or by phoning 1300 65 65 85, buying a limited edition eCard, hosting a fundraiser in the community or joining the Daffodil Dip.