The first day of Spring is still well over a month away, but it’s time to start thinking about the first flower of Spring, and what it represents.

Am. Cancer Society's "Daffodil Days" 2012

 With the American Cancer Society’s “Daffodil Days” set to take place March 12th through the 16th, orders are being taken now through February 17th, to raise funds for cancer research. Purchasing daffodils offers you a chance to show your support for cancer patients, and the hope cancer will be beaten. The daffodil is a symbol of hope.

Denise Coder, Board member of the Cass County Unit of the ACS, says the latest statistics indicate a decline in cancer mortality for the second year in a row, and Daffodil Days serves to continue as a means to fight cancer. Bouquets of 10 daffodils are available for your $10 donation. In addition, the ACS is once again offering the Boyd’s “Bear and a Bunch” selection, made up of a bunch of daffodils, along with a specially-commissioned Boyd’s bear with the American Cancer Society logo on one paw, and a bunch of daffodils on the other. The bear edition is being made available for a $25 donation.

For $15, donors can order “Dainty Daffodils,” in a pot, which can be replanted outside, to bloom year-after-year. And, the “Gift of hope” can be purchased for $25. It will be delivered anonymously to a cancer survivor. Atlantic residents can call Meyer & Gross Real Estate at 243-4100 to place your orders.

Donations collected through the sale of daffodils will be used for cancer research, education, advocacy, and patient services. For more information, call Denise Coder at 243-7475, or log on to www.cancer.org.