While snow covers much of the ground in Iowa, many are thinking sunny thoughts with the help of Daffodil Days. Liddy Hora, spokeswoman for the Fort Dodge chapter of the American Cancer Society, says the agency’s volunteers across Iowa are taking orders now for the cheerful flowers.

Hora says it’s one of the organization’s oldest and most-endearing fundraisers, now in its 17th year. Last year, the Midwest division raised nearly $2.5-million from the effort, with $270-million over the program’s 17 years. For a small donation, you can have a bouquet of the yellow flowers delivered to yourself — or to a loved one’s door.

“The daffodil is one of the first flowers that comes popping up,” Hora says. “When we look outside and there’s snow and it’s cold and then we have that daffodil, it’s a symbol of hope.” She says that symbol is special for the Cancer Society.

“It’s one way of supporting the American Cancer Society and the work that we do through research and life-saving work to have more survivors in this world,” Hora says. “It’s such a wonderful event that you can share those fresh daffodils with someone who has been touched by cancer.” The flowers will be ready for delivery in mid-March. Place your order online at: “www.cancer.org“.

By Pat Powers, KQWC, Webster City