Health and Community Services
April 11, 2017

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Health and Community Services.

Minister Recognizes 60th Anniversary of Daffodil Month

Mr. Speaker, this April marks the 60th anniversary of the Canadian Cancer Society’s Daffodil Month.

On Wednesday, April 5, I had the pleasure of attending this year’s launch of Daffodil Month at Daffodil Place in St. John’s. Since it opened in July 2009, Daffodil Place has been a home away from home for more than 4,500 people from communities throughout our province.

For decades, Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have supported the Daffodil campaign by making a donation, buying a daffodil pin or flowers, and contributing to research and support. Mr. Speaker, this anniversary not only illustrates a long history of supporting those in our communities with cancer, but it also illustrates the giving nature of the many dedicated volunteers in our communities.

Last week, I had the honour of meeting Margot Reid, the longest-serving volunteer with the Canadian Cancer Society in the country, and was pleased to join in the celebration of her volunteer efforts. Ms. Reid has volunteered for 66 years, having brought the Daffodil campaign to Newfoundland and Labrador six decades ago. She has been selling flowers every spring since.

Mr. Speaker, I ask the House to join me today in remembering those in our community who benefit from the Daffodil campaign, and to offer our sincere gratitude to volunteers, like Ms. Reid, who give so generously of their time for others.

Thank you.

2017 04 11                              2:05 p.m.