Weekend beers off limits for Dry July campaign

For Emma Fleay, the cherished tradition of having a few beers on the weekend has been put on hold as she goes sober for Dry July.

Ms Fleay, originally from Narrogin, has taken up the Dry July challenge to raise money to support people affected by cancer through the Dry July Foundation.

She decided to take the challenge in honour of her best friend’s mother.

“It first just started as a joke but my best friend messaged me about getting involved ... her mum has breast cancer,” she said.

“My nan passed away from lung cancer and my sister had leukaemia when she was four years old so they’ve also influenced me to take part.”

With beer her drink of choice, Ms Fleay, above, said it would be a tough test.

“I do like to have a drink, it’s not very often I don’t go a week without drinking,” she said.

Nine days into July, Ms Fleay said her month off the booze was going well so far.

Cancer Council WA Wheatbelt regional education officer Melissa Pickering said committing to the Dry July fundraiser was a great way to raise funds for an important cause.

“By going dry this July and fundraising on behalf of Cancer Council WA you’ll help us continue to provide our vital 13 11 20 Cancer Information and Support Line for all West Australians affected by cancer,” Ms Pickering said.

Ms Pickering said participating in Dry July also had a range of health benefits.

“Going dry for July is a great opportunity to look at how you can reduce your overall alcohol consumption,” she said.

“Alcohol is a cause of cancer. Research shows that every year more than 3200 cases of cancer can be attributed to alcohol consumption, such as mouth, pharynx, larynx, oesophagus, liver, bowel and breast cancer in women.

“If you choose to drink, limit your intake to a maximum of two standard drinks a day and make sure you have alcohol-free days.”

Visit dryjuly.com/cancercouncil.