Daffodil Day 2026 - Elizabeth Paterson

Why I'm doing the Daffodil Day Dip

In 2023, I lost my dad to small cell lung cancer. Cancer didn't just take my dad's health—it took away future memories, future conversations, future laughs, and future moments that I thought we would still have together. It took away birthdays, milestones, family gatherings, and all the little moments that you never realise are so precious until they're gone. Watching someone you love battle cancer is one of the hardest things a person can go through. You feel helpless as you watch them fight a battle you wish you could fight for them. You celebrate every small victory, hold onto hope through every setback, and try to stay strong even when your heart is breaking. My dad was the kind of person who showed up when people needed him. He was supportive, caring, and always there with advice, a laugh, or a helping hand. He was a huge part of my life and losing him has left a hole that can never truly be filled. There are days when I still find myself wanting to pick up the phone and call him. Days when something exciting happens and my first thought is that I want to tell Dad. There are moments when I miss his voice, his guidance, and simply knowing he was there. Grief has taught me that love doesn't end when someone is gone—it simply changes shape and becomes something you carry with you every day. One of the hardest parts of losing someone you love is knowing there is nothing you can do to change the outcome. But there is something we can do to help others facing similar battles. That's why I am fundraising for Cancer Council. Cancer Council provides support for patients and families, funds life-saving research, and works towards a future where fewer families have to experience the pain of losing someone they love to cancer. If sharing my dad's story can help even one family have more time, more treatment options, or more hope, then it is worth it. This fundraiser is for my dad. For the memories we shared, the lessons he taught me, and the love that remains long after he's gone. It is my way of honouring him and ensuring his memory continues to make a difference. If you're able to donate, no matter how big or small, I would be incredibly grateful. If donating isn't possible right now, please consider sharing this page with your family, friends, and community. Every donation and every share helps raise awareness and brings us closer to a future where fewer families have to say goodbye too soon. Thank you for taking the time to read my story, for supporting this cause, and for helping me honour my dad's memory. ❤️ Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever 49. Forever my dad. ❤️

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My Activity Tracking

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kms

In August, I’ll be plunging into cold water for the almost 1 in 2 Australians who will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85.

Please donate to my challenge!

The funds I raise from my Daffodil Day Dip challenge will help power world-class cancer research to save lives.

Your support means so much to me. Please help create a cancer free future by donating to my fundraiser now! 💛

My Dip Progress

I’ve completed

0 dips

My Goal

10 dips

Funds Raised

My Impact

I’ve helped equip 6 researchers with essential lab equipment needed to conduct life-saving research.

Anne Paterson

$117

A huge thank you and shoutout to my biggest supporter, Anne Paterson for donating $117 to help fund the next cancer breakthrough.

My Achievements

Thank you to my Supporters

$116.73

Anne Paterson

I know you can do this 🥰

$33.87

Jess

For Uncle Bundy ♥️ Well done Liz, love all of us

$116.73

Mumma Bear

Proud of you bub

$30

Elizabeth Paterson

Cancer Council acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we live and work. We pay our respects to the elders past and present and extend that respect to all other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

ACNC Registered Charity

Cancer Council is registered with the Australian Taxation Office as an Income tax Exempt Charity. All donations over $2 are tax deductible.

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