Daffodils evoke valued service

Matamata streets will turn yellow this week as volunteers hit the streets to raise funds and awareness for the Cancer Society’s Daffodil Day appeal.

More than 3000 daffodils will be delivered to Matamata. They will be divided between National and ANZ banks, and the volunteers who will be collecting in the centre of town on Daffodil Day, Friday, August 31.

“Daffodil Day is one of New Zealand’s most important fundraising and awareness campaigns, with one in three Kiwis affected by cancer. We’ve already had huge support for Daffodil Day this year and people can expect to see many Cancer Society volunteers out on the streets this Daffodil Day,” said Waikato Bay of Plenty Cancer Society spokeswoman Rachael Mounsey.

The latest Health Ministry figures (2009) reveal that the number of people being diagnosed with cancer is increasing, with 20,000 new registrations.

The Bay of Plenty District Health Board region, alongside Taranaki and Canterbury, has significantly more cancer registrations than the national average.

But while the incidence of cancer increases, more people are surviving due to greater awareness, prevention, screening, and improved treatment options.

The society’s Waikato/Bay of Plenty division believes the need for its vital community services is growing.

‘‘Our cancer liaison nurses are busier than ever and our support groups, transport, accommodation and massage services, and health promotion programmes are being used every day,” said Rachael.

“As the Cancer Society receives no direct Government funding, we rely on donations and bequests from the public to continue our work in supporting those people affected by cancer.

‘‘We ask everyone who can to buy a daffodil this Daffodil Day, and play your part in supporting all those who are affected by cancer.’’