Hope and resilience: Why the daffodil is the symbol of Cancer Awareness Month

The Canadian Cancer Society chats about this year's Daffodil Month and why awareness is so important.

The Canadian Cancer Society has brought back its annual Daffodil Month fundraiser this April, which is Cancer Awareness Month.

Jane Parsons, the Canadian Cancer Society’s chief developmental engagement officer, says they chose the daffodil to represent the month for a specific reason.

“Daffodils are the early sign of spring, although in Atlantic Canada today you wouldn’t know that. We are seeing daffodils pop up around the country already, but daffodils are about hope and resilience, and we really embrace that at the Canada Cancer Society,” said Parsons in an interview with Your Morning Atlantic’s Crystal Garrett on Monday.

“The start of Daffodil Month is really about raising awareness about who we are, celebrating people who are facing a cancer diagnosis, dealing with it, surviving it, and really making sure Canadians are aware that they can mobilize and support cancer patients across the country.”

Cancer is the leading cause of death in Canada, with nearly half of Canadians expected to be diagnosed with the disease at some point in their lives. Parsons says prevention is an important factor, as one of the biggest concerns around cancer is age.

“As we see Canadian population growing and aging, we expect to see more incidences of cancer in the future. So, what is really important is Canadians know the risks, they get screened, that they support the work that we’re doing and other very important cancer agencies across the country,” she said.

Funds raised throughout the month of April will help the society in its research and help ensure people are given the right treatments.

“It goes to our main areas of focus as an organization, I will say research being a big part of what we do, we’re really focused on making sure the right treatments are given to the right people at the right time, that we’re advancing prevention strategies and that we’re improving outcomes throughout our research work,” said Parsons.

Donations for Daffodil Month can be made through the Canadian Cancer Society’s website.