WEYBURN - Community members are encouraged to participate in Dry February, and give up drinking alcohol for the month, in support of the Canadian Cancer Society. Giving up alcohol for a month is a small sacrifice to make to help people affected by cancer, and the good news is that it will benefit those who participate.
The rules of Dry Feb are simple: sign up online at www.dryfeb.ca and stop drinking for the month of February. Participants are encouraged to reach out to family and friends and ask them to sponsor your efforts. The money that is raised will help raise vital funds for the Canadian Cancer Society to make a difference for Canadians affected by cancer.
The funds raised through Dry Feb will help Canadians living with cancer by assisting the Canadian Cancer Society fund groundbreaking research and provide a compassionate national support system for anyone affected by cancer – like the free Cancer Information Service Helpline, which helps people across the country answer questions on all types of cancer, treatments, side effects and much more.
During Dry Feb, the Canadian Cancer Society aims to raise awareness about the link between cancer and alcohol, while also promoting the idea that anyone can modify their alcohol consumption to reduce cancer risk and raise funds to support the Canadian Cancer Society’s work.
Drinking any type of alcohol can increase the risk of head, neck, breast, colorectal and liver cancers. Beer, wine, fancy cocktails and shots will all raise your risk of cancer. Another benefit of participating in Dry Feb is that the sacrifices made will reduce this risk and lead to overall healthy changes.
A healthy diet and lifestyle can help residents live fuller lives. After all, about four in 10 cancer cases can be prevented through healthy living and policies that protect the health of Canadians.
Participants who decide to sign up for Dry Feb are encouraged to make small changes to their habits, with the goal to stick to recommended daily guidelines for the rest of the year. It is important to set reasonable goals, as a slow and steady pace is more beneficial than going ‘cold turkey’. There are also many support programs and services in local communities.
It continues to be important to focus on self-care, and participating in the Dry Feb challenge is one of those ways that residents can meet one of their goals. It is wonderful to see the many people who have already signed up for the fundraiser, and to know there is a supportive community out there.
Take small steps when you can, and don’t be afraid of change or even failure. Only by trying our best can people achieve real change in their lives. The nice thing about Dry Feb is how it benefits many.
