Busselton resident Jack Powell is taking a month off booze by committing to Dry July to help raise money for the Cancer Council.
Dry July is a fundraiser that challenges participants to go booze-free for a month to support the wellbeing of people living with cancer.
Mr Powell said he took on the cause because he wanted to do something to raise awareness about cancer and it will be the first time he has given up alcohol for an extended period of time.
"I have people close to me who have been affected by cancer and I just wanted to do my bit," he said.
"My granddad has prostrate cancer, he is doing really well at the moment and has a lot of support, I also had a close family friend who survived breast cancer.
"Certain days might be a struggle, it will have its challenges I like my beer and wine, but it is not worth it unless it is a challenge."
Cancer Council regional education officer Shenae Norris said committing to Dry July was not only a great way to improve health but also raise funds for an important cause.
"This year funds raised in support of Cancer Council through Dry July will go towards our 13 11 20 Information and Support Line," she said.
"13 11 20 is a confidential service run by experienced cancer support professionals and is available to those affected by or concerned about cancer.
"The service connects Australians with relevant support, information and resources to help them through their cancer journey.
"Last year, the service provided support to over 41,000 callers nationwide."
Ms Norris said participating in Dry July also yielded a range of health benefits but warned participants not to opt for sugary drinks in place of alcohol and encouraged them to continue their efforts past July to maintain the health benefits.
"It's estimated that around 3 per cent of all cancers diagnosed in Australia each year are due to alcohol use," she said.
"Going dry for July is a great opportunity to look at how you can reduce your overall alcohol consumption.
"To reduce your cancer risk and improve your health and wellbeing, we recommend you limit how much alcohol you drink or better still, avoid drinking alcohol altogether.
"If you choose to drink, limit your intake to a maximum of two drinks a day and make sure you have alcohol-free days."
Over the past five years, Cancer Council WA has received over $1.2 million as a beneficiary of Dry July.
"These funds have been used to improve the facilities at Crawford Lodge and Milroy Lodge which provide short term accommodation for South West cancer patients and their carers who need to relocate to Perth for their cancer treatment," she said.
If you would like to make a donation to Mr Powell's cause please visit dryjuly.com/users/jack-powell.
People wanting to participate in Dry July and help Cancer Council to continue supporting thousands of Australians affected by cancer via their 13 11 20 Information and Support Line can sign up at www.dryjuly.com/cancercouncil.
