Cancer society needs daffodil volunteers

The American Cancer Society is seeking volunteers to participate in the seventh annual Daffodil Days campaign by serving as a sales coordinator for one's local business, community or religious group.

Volunteers will encourage co-workers, employees and community members to purchase daffodils for themselves or as a gift to honor a cancer patient, survivor or caregiver through the American Cancer Society's Daffodil Days campaign.

Daffodils provide a symbol of hope and new beginnings to those affected by cancer. While the flowers will be distributed the week of March 17, daffodils can be purchased now through Friday.

"The American Cancer Society's Daffodil Days campaign gives us an opportunity to show our support for cancer survivors and caregivers," said Erin Koertgen, income development representative for the Fox Valley region.

"Our goal this year is to raise $25,000 for patient support services, programs to educate the public on early detection, public health advocacy, and research to put us a step closer to finding a cure."

For the second year, the Garden of Hope Potted Daffodil Bulbs, which includes three bulbs, can be cultivated into a lasting tribute by planting the bulbs after they bloom. Purchase multiple pots to create a Garden of Hope memorial.

Also available for delivery is the second bear in the Boyds Bear collector's series, "Bea R. Hope," designed exclusively for the American Cancer Society. This 10-inch plush bear features the society logo embroidered on one paw and a bunch of daffodils embroidered on the other. Bea arrives with an armful of 10 live daffodil stems. "Bear and a Bunch" costs $25.

The flowers range in price from $10 for a bunch, consisting of 10 daffodils, to $400 for a case of 50 bunches. Gifts of Hope, bouquets of daffodils presented anonymously to local cancer patients, start at $20.

For information on ordering daffodils or to volunteer for the campaign, call the American Cancer Society at (630) 879-9009 or e-mail erin.koertgen@cancer.org.

The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. The Illinois Division has more than 120,000 volunteers and staff fighting cancer in the state. For up-to-date cancer-related information or to join the fight against cancer, call (800) ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.