Daffodil Sale to Raise Cancer Society Funds

In their battle to end the scourge of cancer, one organization plans to employ a bouquet of yellow flowers.

The American Cancer Society has chosen to sell daffodils, often seen as a symbol of spring and rebirth, to raise money for cancer research, education and patient service costs.

On a local level, the Greater Ventura Unit of the American Cancer Society would receive part of the money for programs that include providing transportation to the hospital for cancer patients, bringing in mentors for patients before and after they receive breast or prostate cancer surgery, or teaching cancer patients how to look and feel better.

“The event is premised on the hope that we at American Cancer Society have that we can finally have a cancer-free society,” said Debi Brand-Matthews, chairwoman of the local event.

The chapter’s daffodil fund-raiser last year raised nearly $35,000 for residents of Ventura, Oak View, Ojai, Santa Paula, Fillmore and Piru.

Seven dollars can purchase a bouquet of daffodils. For $10, a bouquet is delivered to a random cancer patient. And for $50 worth of purchases, the nonprofit group will send a batch of daffodils to a location the buyer chooses.

All orders must be placed by March 1. For more information, contact the Greater Ventura Unit of the American Cancer Society at 644-6656.