As difficult as it is to believe in the midst of the bitter cold and heavy snow, spring is coming. The Canadian Cancer Society is kicking off their annual daffodil campaign with a presentation by Kelly Walker.
Walker is an author, storyteller, therapist and musician.
Gloria Diliberto, Manager of the Parkland Unit, describes him as a "compassionate healer and a gentle giant." She promises his presentation will be a fun and inspiring way to start looking forward to the end of winter and of darker times.
"He's going to talk to us about spring and get us motivated to get over the winter blues... He's a lot of fun, he really gets to the heart of the matter and helps you think about things," says Diliberto.
The message of hope Walker brings is something Diliberto says is needed right now, as people are affected by the short days winter brings.
"We've just gotten over the darkest time of the year, and the sun is creeping up and by minutes the days are getting longer. I think this is the time of the year when people are feeling the effects of the lack of sunshine, and I think it's really important to help us think that you know, it's not too bad. Soon spring will be here and the daffodils will be coming out," Diliberto says.
She also says that this relates to the Canadian Cancer Society's mission, by emphasizing the need to have hope and look for the future when people are in the midst of their darkest hours.
"Even when we are at our darkest time and at our lowest, either in cancer treatment or just finding out, it can help you grow and help you think positive," Diliberto notes.
The annual daffodil campaign also begins at the event. While April is daffodil month, Diliberto says that now is the time when the Canadian Cancer Society starts recruiting volunteers and planning for daffodil month. She also says that Walker's presentation is the perfect way to kick off the event, because like the flowers it is a reminder that spring is on the way.
The event will take place on February 3 at the Royal Canadian Legion Hall. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free. Further information can be obtained by calling 782-2788.
Daffodil Days began in Toronto, Canada in the 1950s.
