CLARE BACKS MARIE CURIE’S GREAT DAFFODIL APPEAL

Clare Adamson MSP for Motherwell and Wishaw has thrown her support behind Marie Curie’s largest fundraising appeal month, the iconic Great Daffodil Appeal.

Every five minutes, someone dies without the care they need. The Great Daffodil Appeal, now in its 39th year, encourages everyone to wear their daffodil pins and donate to the end of life charity through the month of March to help Marie Curie bring expert end of life care to more people.

Meeting with staff and volunteers from Marie Curie, Ms Adamson discussed the care and support that is provided to people living with terminal illness, their families and carers across Scotland. 

The event promoted Marie Curie's campaign to ensure that everyone no matter who they are, where they are or their diagnosis has access to the care and support they need at the end of life. 

The leading end of life charity supported 7200 terminally ill people across Scotland in their own homes and at its two Scottish hospices during 2023/24.

Ms Adamson said:

“This was a sobering and difficult event in many respects but also one filled with hope in the face of adversity.

“We heard first-hand from people whose lives had been turned upside down by a devastating diagnosis.

“But the practical and emotional support and expertise offered by Marie Curie was invaluable. 

“Marie Curie nurses are delivering expert end of life care and having that support makes a tremendous difference to people and their families in the most trying circumstances.

“People are often uncomfortable with these topics.  It can be difficult to think about your own mortality.  And it is awful to hear about people suffering in isolation.  But it is important that we engage with that reality and work to change it. 

“That is what makes the Great Daffodil Appeal such an important initiative. 

“I am delighted to support this cause and I would encourage everyone to get involved with the Great Daffodil Appeal, in whatever way you can.”

Anne Lane, whose sister Mags was cared for by Marie Cure, spoke at the event. She said:

“It wasn't just Mags who benefited from the incredible work of Marie Curie.

“As her family, we too found immeasurable comfort and guidance during what was an unimaginably difficult time.

“The staff took the time to explain every step, every option, and did so in a way that made us feel seen and heard. They knew our names, our faces, and our worries, and in some miraculous way, made those worries just a little bit lighter.

“Through counselling and emotional support, they helped us navigate not just Mags's final days, but also our own intricate web of emotions. They reminded us that we were not alone.”

Amy Dalrymple, Associate Director of Policy and Public Affairs, Marie Curie, Scotland, said: 

“Thank you to Clare Adamson for her ongoing support. 

“Seeing and hearing first-hand stories of how living with a terminal illness and caring for someone is a reminder that many of us have and will encounter Marie Curie at some point in our lives. 

“We know that by 2040, a further 10,000 people will be dying with palliative care needs. We need to ensure Marie Curie can be there for everyone across Scotland who needs us, which is why buying a daffodil pin and supporting our Great Daffodil Appeal in March, can help make this possible.

There’s only one chance to give someone the best possible end of life. 

And one chance for you to help give care that makes all that possible. Care that protects someone’s dignity – instead of leaving them alone or in pain. This Great Daffodil Appeal is that chance.  

Every five minutes, someone dies without the support they need. But by donating and wearing your daffodil this March, you can change that – and help our Marie Curie Nurses bring expert end of life care when there’s no cure, whatever the illness.  

The Great Daffodil Appeal only happens once a year. This is your chance to make it count. For information and to donate visit: Mariecurie.org.uk/daffodil   

About Marie Curie  

Marie Curie is the UK’s leading end of life charity.   

The charity provides expert end of life care for people with any illness they are likely to die from, and support for their family and friends, in our hospices and where they live.  It is the largest charity funder of palliative and end of life care research in the UK, and campaigns to ensure everyone has a good end of life experience. Whatever the illness, we’re with you to the end.   

If you’re living with a terminal illness or have been affected by dying, death and bereavement, Marie Curie can help. Visit www.mariecurie.org.uk or call the free Marie Curie Support Line on 0800 090 2309.  

Whatever the illness, wherever you are, Marie Curie is with you to the end.