April Daffodil Campaign

A sure sign of spring is the Daffodil and every April this is the symbol of the national fundraising campaign put on by the Canadian Cancer Society.  Society volunteers through numerous activities work to raise funds for the fight against cancer. There will be fresh daffodils and daffodil pins for sale via canvassing campaigns throughout the month. 

There are many reasons for supporting these campaigns with research funding being at the top of the list for most people.  According to the Cancer Society statistics over 60% of people diagnosed with cancer will survive compared to 25% in the 1940’s when research first began to be funded by the society.  

 For more information you can download the Canadian Cancer Statistics publication 2013 offered here.  Your local library has ebooks, guidebooks, audiobooks, dvds, cookbooks, memoirs and survivor stories to help you learn all you can to prevent, fight and survive cancer.  This disease touches everyone so wear the symbol of hope and renewal this April knowing that you are making a difference.

June means Relay for Life

Relay for Life  is a global movement against cancer that takes place in 20 countries worldwide,
including over 500 communities across Canada.   Throughout the month of June people come together to honour, remember and fundraise for cancer victims and survivors. 

 The relay is an all ages, 12-hour event which is staged overnight.  It includes an inspirational luminary ceremony resulting in thousands of candles lining the relay route.  You can sponsor an individual participant or purchase luminaries with a $5 dollar donation .  

 Camp Goodtime in Nova Scotia is an example of a project that is partially funded by Relay for Life.  Camp Goodtime is a week-long summer camp for kids aged 7-15 living with cancer or a brain tumor.   Activities  such as canoeing, swimming, arts and crafts, outdoor education and sing-a-long sessions  are part of the package.

The Relay has a festival atmosphere and often includes returning participants.  From all accounts the Relay for Life experience is unique and satisfying for everyone involved.  Check here  for information on how to support, participate in or attend an event in your area. 

-Patricia Milner, Head of Reference Services