In Martin County, Indiana, a group of volunteers who call themselves the "Daffy Ladies" come together every spring to share the gift of hope.

This group of dedicated volunteers is passionate about finding a cure for cancer, which has translated into a successful program. In 2007, the Daffy Ladies increased their donations by 40% compared to the previous year.

Kim Howell, Martin County Daffodil Days chair, attributes the program’s success to two things: a good rapport with the local newspapers to promote Daffodil Days and other ACS events on a weekly basis, and the personal commitment from those who have been touched by cancer in some way.

Sandy Haseman is one of the Daffy Ladies and became involved to fight back for her son who has cancer. "Daffodil Days is the most fun I’ve ever had and a worthwhile project," said Sandy. "I would do anything to raise money for a cure."

A few years ago, the volunteers in Martin County made it their mission to make sure every resident at the local nursing homes received daffodils. With the support of sponsors, all of the nursing home residents received a bud vase of daffodils for their night tables.

This follows the concept that is the most unique to Daffodil Days, the Gift of Hope program, in which anyone can make a donation and have daffodils anonymously delivered to cancer patients in a local hospital or treatment facility. These gifts bring the hope and beauty of spring to those currently fighting cancer.

Over the last 13 years, Daffodil Days has raised more than $200 million to support ACS programs. Donations received through the Daffodil Days program enable the Society to offer free programs and services that help people fight cancer with courage and optimism, while providing physical and emotional assistance and financial information to ease the cancer experience.

Additionally, daffodil contributions provide the Society with much-needed dollars to fund groundbreaking cancer research, educate people about the importance of cancer prevention and early detection, and advocate for meaningful public health policies that benefit the community.

"[Daffodil Days] is a wonderful, easy way to get donations for the American Cancer Society," said Kim. "It is the easiest way out there."

Volunteer coordinators will begin taking requests for daffodils in January, and flowers will be delivered in March, the first month of spring.

"Things are still kind of gloomy in March and it makes you have a brighter outlook because you see the flowers there," explained Kim. "It just makes everyone happy."

To participate in Daffodil Days and help raise awareness and funds to help fight cancer, visit www.cancer.org/daffodils.

Pictured: Daffodil Days Chair Kim Howell, ACS Associate Director Eric Herndon, and Sandy Haseman (front row). Marcella Hardwick, Betty Reitmeyer, Karen Swatzentruber, Betty Huelsman, Barbara Boyd, and Judy Yarnell (back row). Not pictured: Jeanette Templin, Susan Arthur, and Nancy Russell.