It is a fact that 1 in 3 of us will develop cancer at some point in our lives.

My parents were fortunate enough to have 3 amazing children ;-) But unfortunate enough to have one child battle cancer.
TWICE.

My older brother Ultan has been unlucky enough to battle two completely different types of cancer in his wee 26 years.
The most recent battle began in April of last year (2011) when Ultan was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma.  9 months of worry, 6 months of chemotherapy and ALOT of tears later, Ultan has finally entered remission (YAY !!!!)

Ultan received a lot of support from Macmillan Cancer Support whilst under-going his cancer treatment.
I'll not lie; I've seen the Macmillan advertisements on TV for years!! and although the ad's are sad and thoughtful... I never really knew what Macmillan Cancer Support did until Ultan needed them.

Macmillan offer information, support (financially and practically) and medical assistance - they push for better cancer care!
Macmillan Cancer Support's income is made up of 90% from DONATIONS!  They simply cannot exist without our help.

I have decided to help Macmillan by volunteering to do a 6 month alcohol ban.  This is a massive sacrifice for me, I can assure you!!
I understand the idea of an 'alcohol ban' may not seem too personal but let me tell you; A LOT of thought went into this.
I had contemplated shaving all my hair off, however seeing as I have suffered from alopecia since the age of 18, this idea seemed pointless due to the fact that I don't have a lot of my own hair without all my hair extensions.  I had also contemplated training and partaking in a marathon but since I learnt you can walk these... I knew I would walk!
NO, I have decided to test myself entirely and partake in an event that will challenge me and probably change me...
Anyone who knows me is aware of my fondness for the weeknight tipple, my pleasure for a full weekend session, and YES I AM that friend who is always up for a jagerbomb!
Personally I know that the next 6 months of babysitting my drunken friends and dancing completely sober like an EEJIT are going to be so hard... but that's what makes the challenge all the more worthwhile.

Having watched my older brother battle cancer twice, and through volunteering in a cancer hospital here in Manchester; I know the pains and horrors of cancer.
I know the struggles, the distress, and the worries of a cancer patient.  And I know that Macmillan are there to help, but need OUR help along the way.

Please donate whatever you can, whenever you can, IF you can.
And you can laugh at sober me along the way...

My six month alcohol ban begins on Monday January 23rd 2012 and ends on Friday July 20th 2012!!
If you don't believe I'll complete the six months sober, I urge you to join me on any night out. Or engage in a conversation with me to realize just  how much this means to me!

  :) xxx