Support for hospice flowers

THOUSANDS of sunflowers will be sold as part of a campaign launched yesterday to raise vital funds for hospice care services for people who are dying or seriously ill.

The annual Hospice Sunflower Days 2006 is aiming to raise money to support patients and their families in need of home help and specialist palliative care.

Eugene Murray, chief executive of the Irish Hospice Foundation, said: “Almost 30,000 people die annually in Ireland and over 6,000 people use hospice services every year.

“It is estimated that up to 13,000 patients will require access to hospice and specialist palliative care in 2016. We face the challenge of meeting this demand for services, irrespective of diagnosis and location.”

The Hospice Sunflower pins, which have been sponsored by Tayto, will be sold for just €2 from volunteers in towns and villages all over Ireland.

Fundraising is vital to support hospice care services which are provided free of charge for those who need it at home or in a hospice setting.

Tayto Marketing Manager, Elaine Breen, said: “The support of Irish people is what has ensured so many people have benefited from hospice care and attention when they needed it most.

“By going out to buy your €2 sunflower pin, you are helping ensure that this vital work continues.”