Dry July is a fundraising campaign encouraging people to give up alcohol for July to raise money for those affected by cancer. The funds provide essential services like transportation to medical appointments, specialist nursing support, therapy programs, and accommodation near treatment facilities.

In July 2008, three friends, Brett, Kenny, and Phil, decided to take a break from alcohol and raise money for a cause close to their hearts. They aimed to raise $3,000 for a TV in their local hospital’s waiting room but ended up raising $250,000, thanks to Adam Spencer's support. This marked the birth of Dry July.

The rules are simple: sign up and stop drinking alcohol for July. Participants are encouraged to ask family and friends for sponsorship. Dry July aims to help social drinkers rethink their habits and make healthier lifestyle choices. Heavy drinkers or those dependent on alcohol should consult their GP before participating. You can sign up in the link below:  https://www.dryjuly.com/users/sign_up

Giving up alcohol for a month can lead to a variety of positive changes in your body and overall wellbeing. Here’s what you can expect when you stop drinking:

Improved Mental Health: although alcohol can feel like a mood booster during social events, it is a depressant that can negatively impact mental health. Quitting alcohol helps stabilize your mood and enhance mental clarity.

1. Better Hydration: alcohol is a diuretic, increasing fluid loss and leading to dehydration. This can result in dry skin, cracked lips, and decreased concentration and energy. Giving up alcohol allows your body to stay hydrated, leading to healthier skin, better focus, and increased energy.
2. Healthier Live: the liver works hard to process alcohol, and excessive drinking can overwhelm it. By quitting alcohol, your liver can start flushing out toxins and regenerate itself, resulting in significant health benefits.
3. Weight Loss: alcohol is high in calories, which can contribute to weight gain. Eliminating alcohol reduces your overall calorie intake, helping you lose weight and potentially drop a dress size or belt notch by the end of the month.
4. Financial Savings: regular alcohol consumption can be expensive. By stopping drinking, you can save a significant amount of money, which can be redirected towards other necessities or savings.
5. Enhanced Sleep Quality: alcohol can disrupt your sleep patterns, leading to poor quality rest. Quitting alcohol can help improve your sleep cycles, allowing you to wake up feeling more refreshed and energized.
6. Stronger Immune System: alcohol can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to illnesses. Giving up alcohol allows your immune system to strengthen, helping your body fight off infections more effectively.
7. Better Digestive Health: alcohol can irritate your digestive system, leading to issues like acid reflux and indigestion. By eliminating alcohol, you can improve your digestive health and reduce discomfort.
8. Clearer Skin: alcohol can contribute to skin issues like acne and redness. Quitting alcohol can help clear up your skin, giving you a healthier and more radiant complexion.
9. Improved Relationships: alcohol can sometimes strain relationships with friends and family. By giving up alcohol, you can improve your interactions and build stronger, healthier relationships with your loved ones

Participating in Dry July offers a multitude of benefits, from improved health and financial savings to enhanced personal relationships and wellbeing. By going alcohol-free for a month, you can make a positive impact on your life while supporting a meaningful cause