Raising awareness of oesophageal cancer and finding better treatments for the disease are the aims of Lollipop Day which takes place this weekend. Oesophageal cancer is one of the most lethal cancers and it is growing in incidence, particularly in Ireland. My own brother Jack, died aged 48, from this awful disease so I am acutely aware of the importance of highlighting awareness.
The Oesophageal Cancer Fund (OCF) are the organisers of Lollipop Day. They have chosen the lollipop as a campaign symbol as they hope it will make people conscious of swallowing, as difficulty swallowing is one of the common symptoms of this disease. Of all the cancers that can afflict us, cancer of the oesophagus (or gullet) is one of the most lethal. This is because of it’s insidious onset and rapid spread.The proceeds from Lollipop Day will enable research to make a difference in fighting this disease.
You can help in several ways:
Volunteer
The more people selling lollipops on Friday 27th & Saturday 28th February 2009, the more awareness and money will be raised.The OCF relies entirely on volunteers so all efforts are appreciated. If you are willing to help, please telephone or email:
Tel: (01) 2897457
email: lollipopday@eircom.net
Donations
All donations, large and small, are gratefully received. Every penny will go directly to the charity. The OCF is a fully compliant registered charity.
Please make out your payment to ‘Oesophageal Cancer Fund’ and send it to:
Lollipop Day
2 Granville Road
Blackrock
Co. Dublin
or
Text LOLLIPOP to 57112
SMS cost €1.50
All proceeds from this mobile service go to the Lollipop Day Fund.
Help lick this disease by supporting Lollipop Day this weekend. Remember, a little lolly goes a long way!
Biopsy Report 
I am off for a great big food shop, so a lollipop or three will be added to the list!
Grannymar – Thanks! I’m taking the easy option by texting. Good to see you back doing your rounds!
Hope you’re feeling better today Steph. Just to let you know the power of your blog -we’re all sitting here licking lovely heart shaped lollies. Yummy.
Annb – Thank you! That really made my day 😀
Yes, good news to report on my head. This morning, there was still no improvement and I began to wonder if I’d have to go back to the hospital (via A&E) to get my antibiotics changed again. Gradually during the day, the pain behind my eye eased and tonight I’m actually feeling human again. Of course, the fact that Ireland won the rugby match in Croke Park had absolutely nothing to do with it!