Irish Cancer Society Provided Nearly 30,000 Free Rides to Treatment in 2025, Daffodil Day Fundraising Crucial
The Irish Cancer Society provided almost 30,000 free transportation lifts to patients undergoing cancer treatment in 2025, alongside over 26,000 support line and Daffodil Centre conversations for those affected by the disease. As Daffodil Day approaches this Friday, March 20th, the organization is urgently appealing for public support to continue these vital services.
Growing Demand for Cancer Support Services
The Irish Cancer Society’s services are becoming increasingly critical as cancer diagnoses continue to rise. According to current statistics, one in two people in Ireland will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime 1. Every three minutes, someone in Ireland receives a cancer diagnosis 1.
Daffodil Day 2026: A Call for €6 Million
This year, the Irish Cancer Society aims to raise €6 million through Daffodil Day to sustain its free services and fund crucial cancer research projects 2, 3. These services include:
- Night Nursing
- Transport service
- Freephone Support Line
- Daffodil Information Centres
- Groundbreaking cancer research and life-saving cancer trials
Taoiseach Supports Daffodil Day
Taoiseach Micheál Martin joined Nikki Gallagher, the newly appointed CEO of the Irish Cancer Society and cancer survivor Katie Foley to promote Daffodil Day on March 20th 2, 3. Foley and her daughter presented the Taoiseach with daffodils, symbolizing the nationwide effort to combat cancer 2.
Patient Story Highlights Transportation Need
Robert Flanagan, a 48-year-old colorectal cancer patient, benefited from the Irish Cancer Society’s travel program. Living in Portlaoise but receiving treatment in Tallaght Hospital, and being a one-car family, the service was essential for minimizing disruption to his children’s lives 1. He was diagnosed with stage four colorectal cancer after initially being misdiagnosed with piles 1.
How to Support Daffodil Day
The public can support Daffodil Day by purchasing a Daffodil Day pin on March 20th or by donating online at cancer.ie or through the Revolut app 4.
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