Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District media release: Wednesday, June 22 2022
When Unanderra extra actor Alf Wyatt modelled last year as one of the faces for the Dry July campaign, he could never have known how personal the popular national cancer fundraiser would become for him.
Three months after the photo shoot, just after his 52nd birthday, Mr Wyatt was himself diagnosed with cancer of the pancreas, liver and bowel. Mr Wyatt is now undergoing treatment at Wollongong’s Illawarra Cancer Centre, which is one of the local beneficiaries of this year’s Dry July campaign, along with the Shoalhaven Cancer Care Centre.
Where many would have shied away from the spotlight to deal with his illness, Mr Wyatt has taken the extraordinary step of reaching out to Dry July, the month-long alcohol abstinence challenge, offering to act as the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District’s (ISLHD) local champion.
“Unless you or someone close to you has received a cancer diagnosis, it’s hard to explain the emotions you experience – shock, disbelief, fear and anger. Coming so soon after the photo shoot for Dry July, the campaign was front of mind and helping to further the cause has become incredibly personal and important for me.
“I am seeing first-hand the amazing work, care and compassion that cancer services like the Illawarra Cancer Care Centre provide and want to do everything I can to support them, my fellow patients and those who will follow.’’
With the start of July just around the corner, the District is again encouraging the community to consider jumping on the wagon for the month as part of Dry July and be sponsored for their efforts.
ISLHD Co-Director Cancer Services, Nicola Ryan is looking forward to the Dry July challenge and is eager to generate support among staff and members of the community.
“This is the ninth year the Illawarra Cancer Care Centre has been chosen as a beneficiary which is terrific news for our region. The Shoalhaven Cancer Care Centre is also involved again, so we expect fierce (but always friendly) rivalry between the two teams and we’re encouraging everyone to get involved,” Ms Ryan said.
“Skipping alcohol can improve your quality of sleep, increase your energy levels, make your skin healthier, help you lose weight, improve your mental health and clear your head.
“If you’re sober curious and/or are already aware of the health, wellbeing and financial benefits of not drinking, Dry July is a great impetus to give it a go and raise funds for a great cause at the same time.
“If signing up to the challenge is not your thing, you can still support the cause by sponsoring a family member, friend or colleague. I encourage you to go to our page and donate - it is a great way to advocate for your community, as the donations stay local.”
In previous year funds raised through Dry July have been used to improve amenities for cancer patients including transforming the main reception and creating more comfortable and welcoming waiting spaces, virtual patient education, beautiful artwork, journey diaries, improving patient Wi-Fi, and upgrades to onsite patient accommodation.
Funds raised this year will be used for a few more creature comforts that will make a big difference to patients such as a music streaming subscription, quality hot beverages, and commissioning Aboriginal artwork.
There’s still time to sign up for the Dry July challenge. To participate, register online and make sure you nominate that all your funds will be sent to either Wollongong Hospital (which goes to Illawarra Cancer Care Centre) or the Shoalhaven Cancer Care Centre.
For more information about Dry July or to sponsor a ‘Dry July-er’ visit the website www.dryjuly.com.au.
Download the Dry July poster.
