Spring daffodils bring thaw to winter blues

Annual Daffodil Days fights cancer, one bunch at a time Goshen — Below zero wind chills. Freezing cold. Patches of ice everywhere. The recent winter blast is enough to get anyone down. But American Cancer Society volunteers across the Hudson Valley are reminding everyone to think spring and join the annual Daffodils Days effort to fight cancer. It may just help you beat those winter blues. Daffodil Days is a simple, yet effective way to help bring hope into the lives of people with cancer right in our community. Every February and March, hundreds of volunteers mobilize to take orders for daffodils in businesses, schools, neighborhoods and places of worship to support research, education, advocacy and local patient service programs through the American Cancer Society. It’s fighting cancer, one bunch at a time. “This is a great opportunity for people to come together and do something special,” said Lorraine Fitzpatrick of the American Cancer Society. “When you participate in Daffodil Days, you aren’t just buying and selling flowers, you’re paving the way for revolutionary new cancer research. You’re working to finally put an end to cancer and to bring hope to the lives of people who have already been diagnosed.” Fresh Cut Bunches of 10 Daffodils are still only $10. For the second year, Boyds Bear and a Bunch, available for $25, includes a bunch of daffodils and a limited edition specially designed stuffed bear, Hugh R. Hope. One of last year’s best selling items, Daffodil Days Potted Flowers are $10, and the very popular ‘Gift of Hope,’ fresh cut daffodils with vase delivered to a health care facility designated by the American Cancer Society, is $20. The American Cancer Society is seeking volunteers to pre-order daffodils in local businesses, schools, churches, and communities. Advance orders will be taken until March 9. Flowers arrive beginning the week of March 19. For more information, call 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org/daffodils.