Canadians are joining the Go Dry national campaign to kick off 2025 and support those impacted by cancer. Go Dry is a fundraising initiative that encourages individuals across Canada to abstain from alcohol for the month of January and raise funds for the Canadian Cancer Society. Those who choose to participate can help fund crucial cancer research and contribute to a nationwide support network, ensuring that no one has to face cancer alone.

This initiative brings awareness towards the connection between alcohol consumption and cancer risk and encourages us to rethink our drinking habits to lower that risk. At the same time, it raises critical funds to improve the lives of those affected by cancer and advance the future of cancer care. There are multiple reasons to participate in Go Dry this January 2025, including supporting those affected by cancer, enhancing your overall well-being, enjoying better sleep, experiencing mental clarity, boosting your energy levels, and feeling a sense of accomplishment.

Thanks to fundraising initiatives like the Go Dry Challenge, during 2024, the Canadian Cancer Society’s online community CancerConnection and ParlonsCancer helped more than 273,000 people affected by cancer. CCS’s Wheels of Hope transportation program helped over 6800 people travel to and back from cancer-related medical appointments and funded $50 million in cancer research and innovation.

For those not ready to commit to going completely dry, there are practical ways to reduce alcohol consumption:

• Stay hydrated with water and avoid using alcohol to quench your thirst.
• Switching to mocktails when hosting a party.
• At home, use a shot glass to measure how much you’re pouring. In social situations, stick to single servings—don’t supersize your drinks.
• You can wind down after a hectic day without alcohol. Consider going for a walk, practicing yoga, taking a bath, curling up with a good book, or chatting with a friend.
• Choose healthy and non-salty snacks, as salt can make you drink more quickly. Opt for veggies and dip or unsalted nuts.
• Pace yourself and drink a glass of water between each alcoholic beverage and give an hour’s gap between drinks.
• You’ll be successful if you set smaller, more realistic goals like “I won’t drink alone” or “I’ll have three alcohol-free days each week.”
• Avoid having drinks before you go out. It’s easy to lose track of your consumption when you start at home and continue at a party.
• Cut the alcohol in half by trying mixed drinks such as a shandy (beer mixed with lemon-lime soda or ginger ale) or a wine spritzer (wine mixed with club soda).
• When out with friends, take the focus off drinking– dance, play pool, or have some fun with karaoke.

To learn more or sign up for the Go Dry challenge, visit their website. By taking part, you can make a meaningful difference in the fight against cancer while reaping personal benefits along the way.