The public are being urged to donate what they can this Daffodil Day to help support terminally ill cancer patients.

Now in its 31st year today, March 23rd, Daffodil Day is the Irish Cancer Society’s annual fundraiser, which raises millions of euro to support cancer patients and their loved ones by providing free advice and support, as well as by funding life-saving cancer research.

Every year in Ireland, 40,000 people are diagnosed with cancer and every hour a person dies from cancer.

Over 7,000 nights of the Irish Cancer Society’s Night Nursing care were made possible by donations from the public and companies last year.

Sylvia Coyle from Kildare was supported by a Night Nurse at home during her final days. Sylvia’s husband John and daughter Alison described the service as invaluable.

“It was Sylvia’s wish to stay at home and the Irish Cancer Society’s Night Nurse enabled her to do that. As well as caring for her, Night Nurse Geraldine talked to Sylvia about her worries which was a great comfort to her. Geraldine looked after the whole family.

“We were lost and she guided us through the very difficult time. She was invaluable to us and so compassionate. This is a vital service and we are asking people to donate on Daffodil Day so that other cancer patients can receive the same excellent care,” they said.

Averil Power, Chief Executive at the Irish Cancer Society reinforced this message by stating only two per cent of the charity’s funding comes from the State.

“Record numbers are turning to the Irish Cancer Society for crucial care and support. Only two per cent of our funding comes from the State. We are therefore hugely dependent on the generosity of the public on Daffodil Day to fund vital services such as Night Nursing. Buy a daffodil on 23 March or donate now at www.cancer.ie and help support more families like the Coyles.,” she said.

You can also donate by texting Daff to 50300 to donate €4. Texts cost €4 and the Irish Cancer Society will receive a minimum of €3.60.

Daffodil Day is proudly supported by Boots Ireland with all 86 stores across the country taking part today in raising much needed funds for cancer patients.