More New Zealanders than ever are seeking support after a cancer diagnosis, with frontline charities reporting growing demand for services as the annual Dry July fundraising campaign prepares to begin.
Cancer support organisations say increasing cancer diagnoses, an ageing population and improved survival rates mean more people are living with cancer and requiring practical, emotional and rehabilitation support long after treatment ends.
The annual Dry July campaign encourages New Zealanders to give up alcohol for the month of July while raising funds to support people affected by cancer. Money raised stays in Aotearoa and helps fund services including counselling, rehabilitation programmes, support groups, wellbeing workshops and specialised recovery services for patients, whānau and carers.
The need continues to grow. Every 22 minutes someone in New Zealand is diagnosed with cancer, with more than 2,200 people expected to receive that diagnosis during July alone. Support organisations say demand for non-medical services has never been higher as people seek help navigating the physical, emotional and financial impacts of cancer.
Dry July supports three national charities: Cancer Support New Zealand, the Prostate Cancer Foundation New Zealand and the Cancer Rehabilitation Foundation’s PINC & STEEL programme. These organisations provide services designed to improve quality of life during and after treatment, helping people regain confidence, mobility and wellbeing.
Since launching in New Zealand in 2012, more than 61,000 participants have taken part in the campaign, raising more than $10 million for cancer support initiatives. More than 170 projects have been funded across the country, with last year’s campaign raising more than $700,000 to expand services.
Health advocates also point to an additional benefit of Dry July. Reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption for a month can improve sleep, increase energy levels, support mental wellbeing and reduce a known risk factor for several types of cancer.
Individuals, workplaces and community groups are being encouraged to register for the challenge ahead of 1 July, with organisers hoping another strong fundraising effort will help meet the rising demand for cancer support across Aotearoa.
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