As the first flower of spring and the official flower of the American Cancer Society, the daffodil is a symbol of hope, renewal and the promise that one day no one will have to hear the words, "You have cancer."

Support the American Cancer Society’s prevention, treatment and advocacy efforts by purchasing fresh daffodils and custom designed teddy bears (limited availability), during the annual Johns Hopkins Daffodil Days, March 13 and 14. Sponsored by the Office of Faculty Staff and Retiree Programs, the program shows real flower power by raising funds and awareness through the sale of daffodils, a symbol of hope and renewal.

For a $10 contribution, donors receive a bouquet of fresh-cut daffodils or potted daffodil bulbs. Most sites will also have a small quantity of a limited edition Boyd’s Bear™, Bea R. Hope, especially designed for 2008, available for $25, which includes a bunch of daffodils.

If you are writing a check, please make it payable to the American Cancer Society. For more information, e-mail Sondra Ponzi in the JHU Office of Faculty, Staff and Retiree Programs or call 410-516-0338.

Promote the program at your work site, download a picture of this year's bear, or care and feeding tips .