With hours remaining until the end of July and Dry July, the Dry July NZ Trust is making an urgent appeal for people to continue their support for cancer patients across New Zealand.

People can still donate through until the end of August – and the money raised in New Zealand will benefit cancer patients in New Zealand through three charity beneficiaries – Look Good Feel Better, Pinc & Steel and Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand.

The economic climate in New Zealand is tough, with many Kiwis feeling the pinch of rising living costs.

"But imagine facing these challenges while also fighting cancer," says Dry July founder Brett Macdonald.

Cancer patients say nothing truly prepares you for the battle with cancer or the aftermath once it’s gone. This is where funds raised from Dry July come in; helping cancer patients with non-medical support as they navigate their new normal post-cancer.

“We are calling on all New Zealanders to dig deep and support people in need this Dry July," says Brett. "Many people have cut back on charitable giving due to the cost of living, mortgage stress, and other pressures.

“We urge everyone to consider how things would be if they had to add cancer to that list because that’s the reality for thousands of kiwis in our community right now.”

Carey Smith is a prostate cancer survivor who is giving back through Dry July. He is the top individual fundraiser.

“The doctors do a great job of removing the cancer, but nothing prepares you for the aftermath of surgery," says Carey. "There are certain side effects, body changes, and this is why these foundations are here.”

Carey says year he was diagnosed with prostate cancer.

"A disease which affects one in eight men but for my age group, it is one in 62 so I was well ahead of the curve. It is a surprise for anyone who has a life-changing moment medical or otherwise and this was mine.

"I am extremely thankful to my doctors for their medical skill, family and friends for their understanding, my work colleagues for their never-ending support and to Emma who was there for me through every part to help navigate this unknown journey and beyond."

Carey says he wants to help raise awareness and support the Dry July Trust for people who are affected by cancer.

"I raised $3,768 in 2021 so it would be good to beat that," says Carey.

So far, as of July 30, Carey has raised $8477.40.

By donating to Carey Smith by midnight Friday, August 2 2024 people are automatically in the draw to win one of 20 $100 Woolworths vouchers. Terms apply: dryjuly.co.nz/2024/grocery-voucher-giveaway

Team Plunkett Boys are aiming to raise $22,000 for Dry July. Photo: Supplied.

Tom Plunkett and his brothers, Will, Ben, and Olly committed to going dry this July to support their father Tony, who is battling his second round of cancer. Hailing from Rakaia Gorge, Canterbury Plains, two brothers are farmers, and the other two are pilots.

“It does involve a bit of sacrifice, but it is nothing compared to what people with cancer are going through," says Tom.

"The funds we raise will help provide practical, tangible support services aimed at making a difficult time a little easier for those battling cancer.

"Dad [Tony] is in his second round of cancer, and we understand firsthand how much this impacts families. We all have someone in our lives who has faced the big C."

Donate to Plunkett Boys by midnight Friday, August 2 2024 NZST and automatically go into the draw to win 1 of 20 $100 Woolworths vouchers. Terms apply: dryjuly.co.nz/2024/grocery-voucher-giveaway

Dry July has been the ultimate alcohol-free challenge for more than 10 years, raising funds for tens of thousands of New Zealanders living with cancer. Through the generous efforts of participants, more than 150 projects have been funded, providing comfort and care for those affected by cancer, particularly in rural and regional areas.

“Even if you do not know someone taking part in Dry July, you can still help this incredibly important cause by making a donation to The Dry July NZ Trust in support of people impacted by cancer when they need it most," says Brett.

Support the Carey Smith, the Plunkett Boys and other Dry July participants by donating at Dry July NZ Trust.