It's not just about raising money, it's also about spreading hope.
The Canadian Cancer Society of Elgin-Middlesex's annual Daffodil Campaign is underway. Pins and Daffodil flowers are being sold in support of cancer research and support initiatives.
Julia Bepaz, the Volunteer Engagement Coordinator of the Canadian Cancer Society of Elgin-Middlesex, says they hope to raise $75,000 locally. This includes the money being raised from pin boxes placed within local businesses.
Bepaz says wearing a Daffodil pin is important, not only to support research but also to spread hope.
“When everyone wears a Daffodil pin, it’s a symbol of hope for everyone,” Bepaz says. “Of hope that one day cancer will be eradicated, a hope that the survival rate will continue to increase because since the past year, the survival rate for cancer has increased to 74%, which is incredible. And especially for some cancers like breast cancer the survival rate is now at 88%. And that is thanks to research, clinical trials, and efforts and donations of everybody.”
Bepaz says the money raised allows the Society to fund research, provide services, and support people who are fighting cancer.
“Last year for instance, just in London we had nine cancer research projects at Western University that we invested $498,714 in," says Bepaz. "So that’s a very local example of how we are investing. So little by little, we are making advances in the fight against cancer. So we encourage everyone to participate, whether by volunteering, by wearing the pin, and by being aware of the struggles of cancer. "
Though fundraising is essential for research, Bepaz says the goal of the campaign is not just about raising money, but also about showing support.
“When I wear my pin, I wear it for my mom,” Bepaz tells us. “I wear it for all the people who lost their battle, as well as providing support to those who are currently facing cancer and struggling with the treatment."
For more information on where pins and Daffodils can be purchased, visit www.cancer.ca
**This story was written by Kayley Leon, a student in the Media, Theory, and Production program at Western University. Kayley is currently performing an internship with BlackburnNews.com**
