Daffodil Day funds cancer patients

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File Photo by Susan Safford

The Martha’s Vineyard Cancer Support Group is the sole sponsor of the annual Daffodil Day on March 17. This is the first time the Island group has been the sole sponsor. Bunches of 10 buds that, according to a press statement, “will open into beautiful blossoms,” will be sold at the Edgartown Stop & Shop, Cronig’s, and the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital for $10 per bunch. Daffodils that have been pre-ordered will also be distributed on March 17. All of the money raised will help Island residents served by the Cancer Support Group, a federally recognized, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization run entirely by local volunteers.

“Previously, Daffodil Day was done by the American Cancer Society, but they decided not to continue this year,” said Katharine Colon, a member of the Cancer Support Group board. “So this is our first year doing it, and all of the money we raise will stay on the Island.”

The Martha’s Vineyard Cancer Support Group’s mission is to “provide temporary and emergency financial assistance to year round island cancer patients and their families.” The group also hosts confidential meetings every Wednesday at noon in the library of the Martha’s Vineyard Hebrew Center on Center Street in Vineyard Haven.

For more information about Daffodil Day, call Diane Ballay-Foley (508-693-7115) or AnneMarie Donahue (508-627-7958). More information about the weekly meetings and financial assistance is available at 508-627-7958 or 508-693-8296, or on the group’s website, mvcancersupport.org. All requests for financial aid are confidential. Donations may be made on the website or by sending a check made out to MV Cancer Support Group at P.O. BOX 2214, Vineyard Haven, MA, 02568.