Canadian Cancer Society celebrates its 75th Anniversary and launches annual Daffodil campaign across BC
VANCOUVER, March 28, 2013 /CNW/ - During Daffodil Month, the Canadian Cancer Society is asking British Columbians to wear a daffodil pin as a symbol of support for people living with cancer and to join the fight against cancer by making a donation to the Society.
Today's launch of the Society's national Daffodil campaign is particularly meaningful as this day marks the organization's 75th anniversary.
The Canadian Cancer Society was founded on March 28, 1938 and through the years has grown into Canada's leading national cancer-fighting charity. Today - thanks to the years of support of volunteers and donors - the Society has the reach, strength and experience to make the most impact against cancer.
"We are so impressed by the number of British Columbians who wear their daffodil pin during April to show their support for those affected by cancer," says Barbara Kaminsky, CEO, Canadian Cancer Society, BC & Yukon. "This movement - which originated here in BC and is thanks to countless dedicated volunteers - recognizes the cancer journey and mobilizes communities to make a really big difference in the fight against cancer."
During the Society's early years in the 1940s, the cancer survival rate was about 25 per cent. Today, more than 60 per cent of Canadians diagnosed with cancer will survive at least five years after their diagnosis.
"Our 75th anniversary is an opportunity for us to celebrate how far we've come while also recognizing that more work needs to be done," adds Kaminsky. "We know about half of all cancers can be prevented so it's time for us to focus on doing just one thing to reduce our risk."
The bright yellow daffodil has been an integral part of the Society's history since it was used by volunteers during the 1950s to decorate tables at fundraising events that became known as Daffodil Teas. The Society continues to host special events and activities throughout April to raise vital funds for the important work of the Society.
Daffodil Day - Saturday, April 27 - helps wrap up the Society's campaign by designating a special day where we can reflect upon the thousands of Canadians who are on a cancer journey and also to remember those who have not survived.
Donations to the Canadian Cancer Society during Daffodil Month help fund research to outsmart cancer, assist in providing information and deliver programs to prevent cancer and support those living with cancer and support advocacy for public policies that improve the health of Canadians.
To donate online or to find out where you can get a daffodil pin, go to fightback.ca. The pins are also available at participating locations of Pharmasave, Kin's Farm Market, MarketPlace IGA, Caffé Artigiano, The Running Room, WIRELESSWAVE and more.
For 75 years the Canadian Cancer Society has been with Canadians in the fight for life. We have been relentless in our commitment to prevent cancer, fund research and support Canadians touched by cancer. From this foundation, we will work with Canadians to change cancer forever so fewer Canadians are diagnosed with the disease and more survive. When you want to know more about cancer, visit our website at cancer.ca or call our toll-free bilingual Cancer Information Service at 1-888-939-3333;TTY,1-866-786-3934.
SOURCE: Canadian Cancer Society (BC and Yukon Division)
Sheila Dong
Manager, Media Relations
Canadian Cancer Society, BC & Yukon
604-675-7365 (office)
604-802-2321 (cell)
[email protected]
Share this article