THIS year’s Daffodil Day theme is ‘For Someone I Know,’ and encourages everyone to show their support for friends and family affected by cancer.

Sixteen-year old Kaitlyn Smart is supporting the Cancer Council’s fundraising campaign in recognition of her mother.

Kaitlyn said she is very grateful to have her mum in her life, “because so many people don’t.”

“She’s one of kind,” Kaitlyn said.

“I’m glad she’s here and will be able to share the experiences in my life with me.”

Kaitlyn’s mum Debbie was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013 which came as quite a shock for the Tea Gardens mother of three.

She received a second blow two years later when she was diagnosed with neck cancer.

Debbie has undergone intensive therapies and surgery and still travels frequently for on-going treatments.

Mrs Smart told News Of The Area she would not have been able to come through her traumatic battle without the help of her family.

“I had to depend on the love and support of my wonderful family and friends who went above and beyond,” she said.

“Kaitlyn is such a joy and I’m looking forward to following her journey.”

Every day, 350 Australians find out they have a life-threatening cancer.

The survival rate for many common cancers has increased by 30 percent in the last two decades, but the Cancer Council said there is still a long way to go.

Kaitlyn encourages everyone to get behind Daffodil Day and support the fundraising event.

“It’s such an important day to help the large number of people out there who are suffering from cancer,” Kaitlyn said.

“When someone is diagnosed with cancer, it not only affects them but it also has a big impact on their whole family.”

Debbie’s advice to other cancer sufferers is to, “think positively, and take one day at a time.”

“My wish is for a world without cancer where everyone has the chance to live a happy and healthy life,” she said.

Kaitlyn Osborne and her friends will be among the many Myall Coast residents splashing the colour yellow during Daffodil Day.

Ms Osborne said she is supporting the campaign in honour of her Aunty Leanne.

“There are so many people who are diagnosed with cancer every year and most of us know someone who is suffering,” she said.

“By supporting Daffodil Day we can all help make a difference.”

Daffodil Day is 26 August and the Cancer Council hopes to raise $2.6 million for cancer research, support services and prevention programs.

Daffodil Day pins can be purchased from various businesses throughout the region.

 

By Daniel SAHYOUN