Support for people with cancer is more important now than ever the CEO of the Irish Cancer Society has said as the charity marks its first Daffodil Day without street collections or events.

CEO Averil Power said, “When we made the decision earlier this month to cancel all Daffodil Day events and street collections we were blown away by the response.

“As we work to adapt to the current public health crisis and ensure we are providing cancer patients, survivors and their families with the appropriate care and support that they need, we have been reminded of the generosity of Irish people.

“Across Ireland we have seen people take up safe ways to raise funds including things like solo walks or virtual events.  Venues have even offered to stream events as online fundraisers. And we have had dozens of offers from companies offering to help in various ways. Now people can log on to cancer.ie to donate and download a digital daffodil to show their support.

“Each year more than 40,000 people are diagnosed with cancer – unfortunately this will remain the case even with the coronavirus outbreak.

“What’s more is there approximately 200,000 people in Ireland living with and beyond cancer, many of whom are at a higher risk of developing a serious illness if they catch coronavirus.

“This is why it is more important than ever that we support people with cancer.

“The Irish Cancer Society is continuing to provide crucial services including our NightNurse service, providing end-of-life care for people in their homes, our volunteer driving service to transfer patients to chemotherapy and other support services.  

“We have also extended our Cancer Nurseline hours to ensure that we are there to help people with their concerns as they need us.

“We are also funding remote counselling to ensure that those affected by cancer can continue to access the help they need when they can’t access face-to-face services.

“We’re determined to be there for everyone who needs us. But as only 3% of our funding comes from the State, we can’t do that without the support of the public so please help by donating what you can on cancer.ie.

“Our official sponsors, Boots Ireland, are also continuing to sell pins in store.

“The Nurseline is operating extended hours and is available from 9.00am-8.00pm Monday-Thursday & 9.00am-5.00pm Friday-Sunday.

“People who have cancer related concerns and feel they may benefit from speaking with a counsellor should contact the Irish Cancer Society Nurseline:  Freephone 1800 200 700 lines or email the Cancer Nurseline:  cancernurseline@irishcancer.ie”