In New Zealand, one in three Kiwis will receive a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime, according to the organisation that supports those affected.

“Each day 81 Kiwis hear the words, ‘you have cancer’,” said the Cancer Society of New Zealand’s website for its most iconic annual fundraising campaign.

“Daffodil Day is a chance to show your friends and family affected by cancer they’re not alone.”

The society said it’s the generosity of New Zealanders on Daffodil Day that help cancer patients and their whānau get the care and practical support they need.

This included crucial help getting to treatment via the society’s free driving service, through to specialist nursing and psychology support, and accommodation for those needing life-saving treatment far from home. The society’s work also included local check-ins, and access to counselling and practical support.

“Because cancer doesn’t just affect one person. It affects partners, kids, parents, friends, the whole whānau.”

Daffodil Day is also about donating in order to protect future generations of New Zealanders by helping to fund world-leading cancer research and vital prevention programmes, the society said.

This year Daffodil Day is on Friday, August 28, but people of all ages can get involved at any time during August.

This year Daffodil Day is on Friday, August 28, but people of all ages can get involved at any time during August. Photo / File

There are many ways people can support the fundraiser. People can donate to the cause online or donate or buy fresh daffodils or daffodil pins on August 28.

They can volunteer with the Cancer Society to help on collection stations, or fundraise as an individual, school, workplace, or community group through Daffodil Day’s online website at: daffodilday.org.nz

“Tragically, we will all be touched by this heartbreaking disease. That’s why we’re encouraging you to give by registering to fundraise for Daffodil Day, or by donating,” the society said.

“We can’t thank you enough for your support of Daffodil Day.”

How to donate

All through August donations can be made online at: daffodilday.org.nz or at any branch of the ANZ bank – the Cancer Society’s major sponsor.

Daffodil Day itself is on Friday, August 28, but there will also be collections in many main centres and towns on Saturday, August 29, so look out for the volunteer collectors!