BACKGROUND

BRETT MACDONALD

"Having seen friends take a month off drinking in 2007, and after seeing the challenges they faced during that period, I realised the potential for the concept of Dry July as a fund raising opportunity on a greater scale.

On gaining great feedback and positive encouragement on the concept of Dry July, along with people very willing to get involved and assist in any way they could, it was evident we had the expertise to further pursue the potential of Dry July.

Having lost close family to cancer, I wanted to take the concept of Dry July further and devote funds raised to charity organisations that would directly benefit the lives of those living with cancer. My hope is that Dry July will make a difference and provide real-life experiences, hope, support, treatment, therapy, encouragement, prolonged life, lasting memories and fulfillment."

PHIL GROVE

"In December 2007, doctors discovered a carcanoid tumour completely blocking my left lung.

I experienced a nightmare week awaiting test results indicating whether the tumour was benign or malignant. During this week I was in and out of hospital having tests and found both the staff and patients of the Prince Of Wales Hospital in Sydney inspirational. Luckily the tumour was benign and it was successfully removed but every year, for 1000’s of other people, the news is not as good and they will be visiting the hospital on a regular basis for what could be the rest of their lives.

I decided after I came out of surgery that I should try and do something to help the people that have to spend the majority of their time in hospital... just something that will make their everyday lives a little easier to cope with... This was my motivation for creating Dry July."

KENNY McGILVARY

"I turned 30 in 2007. That involved a lot of partying. By the end of the month I had had my fill of drinking and was ready for a break so I decided it was time to go dry for a while. July was just around the corner so the date was set – and so the first step towards Dry July was taken.

The process of taking a month off the sauce was not an easy one. There were birthday parties, leaving parties, big sporting occasions and always a good reason for a libation or two. But with a bit of self-discipline I was still able to go out, have a good time and wake up with a clear head the next day!

I also found that I had a few more dollars in my pocket and lots of energy to burn, so I decided to make use of both and learn something new. Two Dry July’s later and I’ve gone from having never hit the slopes to being an avid snowboarder!

Dry July works in the interests of both the beneficiaries we support and the people going dry. That’s why I love the concept and why I’ll be going Dry in July again!"