Supporting cancer services on Daffodil Day

Leitrim-based milliner and influencer Jennifer Wrynne was diagnosed with breast cancer in June 2024 at the age of 36, after discovering a lump in her breast just two months after the birth of her daughter, Amelia Rose.

Almost two years on, Jennifer is urging communities in every county in Ireland to turn daffodil yellow on Daffodil Day, March 20, and to go all in to raise vital funds for the Irish Cancer Society and give hope to cancer patients.

Raising a young family, Jennifer admits her world was turned "upside down overnight" by the cancer diagnosis, which was the last thing she expected.

“A cancer diagnosis brings fear, shock, and huge uncertainty, not just for you, but for the people who depend on you. I quickly learned how much strength you can find when you have the right support around you. Throughout my treatment and recovery, the Irish Cancer Society provided trusted information, reassurance, and a sense of hope at times when I needed it most," she said.

Jennifer feels that her experience and story highlights the importance of awareness, early detection and good supports.

"I want to not only raise awareness and vital funds, but also to remind others that they are not alone, and that there is strength, hope, and a life beyond a diagnosis. This Spring, every daffodil you see is a reminder that no one has to face cancer alone.”

The Irish Cancer Society is making a further commitment of over €1M for the Young Onset Cancer Pilot Programme for 2026 and 2027, delivered in partnership with the Trinity St James’s Cancer Institute.

This builds on the Irish Cancer Society’s investment of almost €2M in the Research Programme over the past three years, with additional funding in, 2026 and 2027 bringing the figure to €3M. The programme is aimed at improving outcomes and providing tailored support for people diagnosed with cancer at a younger age.

Amy Nolan, Director of Clinical Affairs at the Irish Cancer Society said: “Every donation on Daffodil Day helps us be there for cancer patients and their families — and allows us to fund research."

Over the last couple of decades, there has been a concerning rise in cancer cases among patients under 50, most notably cancers of the gastrointestinal tract — including colon, stomach, pancreas, and liver — alongside increasing numbers of breast, lung, and other solid organ tumours.

Ms Nolan praised the generosity of people for supporting Daffodil Day and the work of the Irish Cancer Society.

"With just five per cent of our funding coming from the government, we rely on fundraising to fuel our work. We’re encouraging everyone to get involved and go all in this Daffodil Day — the more we raise, the more care, support, and hope we can provide to people affected by cancer in every corner of Ireland.”

The Young Onset Cancer Pilot Programme addresses the specific unmet needs for people from 25 to 50 years affected by cancer. Specific focus areas include the provision of social and psychological support, development of primary care pathways, sexual health, fertility, survivorship, and wellbeing. Other research focus areas include examining the underlying biology and cause of young onset cancer, screening, and early detection.

Daffodil Day takes place on Friday, March 20. Whether you want to get involved with your school, company, or in your community, there are lots of ways to go all in and support cancer patients across Ireland.

Visit cancer.ie to get involved or learn more.

The team in Cavan is appealing for volunteers to help on the flag day. They estimated a hundred or more volunteers are needed to sell daffodils at outlets and locations. Contact Martina on 086-3782928.