The deadline is approaching to take part in one of the longest-running and most popular fundraisers for the American Cancer Society. Iowa chapter spokeswoman Andrea Hanus says Daffodil Days is a great way to spread the joy of spring to Iowans who’ve been touched by cancer.

Orders are taken by volunteers from the community in January and February and the bright yellow flowers will be available for pickup March 11th through 15th. The deadline to order is February 18th. This is the 40th year for the program.

Hanus says you can get a bouquet of about 10 daffodils for a $10 donation, and there are many other options. There’s also a bouquet with a vase for $15, daffodil bulbs ready to plant, the Bear in a Bunch program, or a huge bouquet for the office or place of worship.

Estimates find 17-thousand Iowans will be diagnosed with cancer this year while 6,000 Iowans will die from it. As the first flower of spring, the daffodil represents hope and renewal.

To the American Cancer Society, the daffodil symbolizes hope for a future where cancer no longer threatens those we love. To order, call 800-ACS-2345 or visit: www.cancer.org.

By Pat Powers, KQWC, Webster City