Typically conducted in March, Daffodil Days raise funds and awareness for cancer using this cheerful symbol. Cancer annually claims the lives of over 600,000 Americans and affects innumerable others. Since the 1950s, the daffodil has represented resilience and optimism in the face of cancer. The vibrant flower symbolizes the efforts of researchers and physicians to discover a cure and improve treatment for all types of cancer. Beginning with the Canadian Cancer Society, cancer research organizations across the globe have adopted the daffodil as a symbol of hope and fortitude in the face of disease.
The background of Daffodil Day
Cancer refers to a group of diseases in which the body’s cells begin to divide uncontrollably, causing harm to the surrounding tissue. Cancer can affect nearly every portion of the body. When cells proliferate uncontrollably, they can form growths, also known as tumors. As they overwhelm the normal functions of organs, malignant tumors that have spread to other parts of the body pose a threat. Nearly four out of ten individuals will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives; therefore, everyone should be aware of the potential risks and preventative measures.
The Canadian Cancer Society began using daffodils, the first spring flower, as a symbol in 1956, when volunteers distributed the vividly colored flowers to raise awareness. “Daffodil Days” became a popular cancer research fundraiser in which volunteers sold daffodils to raise funds. Since then, additional organizations, such as the American Cancer Society, have adopted the daffodil as a symbol. Advocates use Daffodil Days as an opportunity to raise cancer awareness and help people live longer, healthier lives.
In February of 2021, the American Cancer Society hosted Daffodil Days, during which participants could purchase bouquets of daffodils for themselves or as favors for cancer patients in hospitals and treatment facilities. Flowers were delivered at the conclusion of March. The American Cancer Society works to provide cancer patients with information, fund research for the development of lifesaving drugs and procedures, pass legislation that improves access to care, and advocate for cancer patients and their families in a variety of other ways.
International Childhood Cancer Day 2023: Date, History, Five facts
5 Interesting Cancer Treatment Facts
30–50% of cancer diagnoses could be prevented with healthier lifestyle choices, according to research.
More than two-thirds of Americans with cancer survive at least five years after diagnosis.
Chemotherapy is well-known as a cancer treatment that targets cancer cells aggressively, but it can also be used to treat diseases that affect the immune system, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Tobacco use causes thirty percent of all cancer fatalities, making it the leading preventable cause of cancer.
The World Health Organization attributes nearly 70 percent of malignancies worldwide to improper nutrition.
DAFFODIL DAY DATES
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2023 | March 22 | Wednesday |
2024 | March 22 | Friday |
2025 | March 22 | Saturday |
2026 | March 22 | Sunday |
2027 | March 22 | Monday |