THE Irish Cancer Society (ICS) and sponsors Dell are taking steps to prevent Daffodil Day being washed out in 2014 after downpours impacted on collections last year.
This year the ICS will have new indoor collection points and the collections will be boosted through bag packs in Tesco stores, coffee mornings and an online app created by Dell which supporters can use to make a donation.
Speaking at the launch of Daffodil Day 2014, during which Dubliners were urged to get behind the cause, ICS head of fundraising, Mark Mellett, said last year’s event really made a splash – but for all the wrong reasons.
“While our volunteers and collectors braved the elements, the severe conditions kept many indoors,
? he explained.
“This year we hope for sunnier skies but as there are no guarantees we have done our best to waterproof our plans.
“There will be lots of indoor activities to stand alongside the outdoor collections this year so we are ensuring that there are lots of ways that people can donate.
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Daffodil Day is one of the main fundraising events for the ICS in its efforts to battle cancer. Funds raised on the day by thousands of volunteers go directly to fund the work of the Society across research, services and advocacy.
One of the services provided by the ICS is night nursing, which is available free of charge to people suffering with cancer who are seriously ill at home.
Last year 97 per cent of requests for night nursing were fulfilled and the ICS is hoping a successful Daffodil Day in 2014 will mean all requests will be met this year.
A fundraising target of e3.45 million has been set to help reach the target.
Most recent data from the National Cancer Registry shows that 9,458 people were diagnosed with cancer in Dublin during 2011. Irish Cancer Society CEO, John McCormack, said support from the public was vital in the battle to reduce the statistics.
“We won’t give up until cancer does and we need the public to stand beside us in this audacious statement of intent,
? he said.
“Together we can beat cancer and Daffodil Day is just one way the people of Dublin can join us in trying to make this vision a reality.
“So we ask people to join us again this year and to volunteer to help out on Daffodil Day – do what you can to make a difference.
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The Irish Cancer Society’s 27th Daffodil Day, supported by Dell, will take place on Friday, March 28. To get involved or to make a donation call 1850-606060 or visit cancer.ie/daffodilday.