CANCER remains one of Australia’s biggest health problems. With 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85, the chances are you’ll know someone who has had this terrible disease.

Funding research into cancer is one of the best ways we can work together to protect those we love, and that’s exactly what the Cancer Council hopes to achieve with Daffodil Day, Friday August 22 2008.

Daffodil Day is the largest fundraising event of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere and the day of the year we invite all Australians to unite and lend their support to the fight against cancer.

It is also a day to celebrate the spirit of cancer survivors and their families, carers and medical specialists, bringing hope and goodwill for the future of all Australians touched by the disease.

Purchase a Daffodil Day gift, such as a glowing wristband, shining enamel pin, sparkling diamante, cuddly Dougal Bear, soft mini-ball, or branded pen, and your dollars will help fund The Cancer Council Helpline (13 11 20), its cancer research and prevention campaigns.

The money raised will help the Cancer Council to fund essential services, education and research programs, making a difference to lives of people with cancer today, and helping to protect lives tomorrow.

Daffodil Day gifts can be purchased at volunteer sites and supporting outlets: Coles, Bi lo, Millers, Pick & Pay, Rockmans, ANZ, Crossroads, Quix, Healthy Life and DVC stores.

The Cancer Council’s Chief Executive Officer, Professor Ian Olver, says: “Daffodil Day is helping change attitudes towards cancer. People are now more open to talk about their health and seek advice, which can help in the prevention and early detection of cancer. But there is still much work to be done.

“We want people to give a Daffodil Day gift in memory of a loved one, to celebrate a survivor, or to simply give hope for a brighter future, and help The Cancer Council reach our fundraising target of $8 million.”

While the official Daffodil Day date is Friday 22nd August, gifts can be purchased throughout the month. To order items and become a stall volunteer, or make an online donation visit www.daffodilday.com.au.

All money raised goes to Cancer Council research, education and patient support programs. As little as $5 can provide support to newly diagnosed patients.