GIVING up the grog was an easy decision for Kelli Sanders. The Point Cook resident watched in despair as the devastating consequences of alcoholism crippled the life of a close family member.
While she enjoys an occasional tipple, she’s vowed never to slip into the same abyss.
In an effort to look after her health Ms Sanders is banning the booze as part of Ocsober, a nationwide fund-raiser for Life Education, and is encouraging others to do the same.
“I’ve seen so many teenagers drunk off their faces in the street, and while they might think it’s fun, they have no idea what damage the alcohol is doing to them,” Ms Sanders says.
“Somebody close to me has a history of alcohol abuse and they were told they had 15 litres of fluid inside their liver which was not working and was squishing other internal organs. Their heart is suffering as well and the doctor basically said, ‘if you don’t stop drinking, you’ll die’ — that’s when it hit home to us as a family.
“Alcoholics can’t just stop drinking – unless they really want to. They might have a week or two being ‘good’, and then think that they can have one drink and stop, but more often than not one turns into two.
“Some may hide their alcohol from loved ones, thinking that it won’t be found. This deception can be a tremendous strain on a relationship, which can ultimately lead to the breakdown of marriages.”
Ms Sanders says that while alcohol is often seen by people as a “social lubricant” and the only way they can have a good time, staying sober doesn’t equate to boredom.
“I’ve had people tell me they couldn’t give alcohol up even for just a month, but if you put your mind to it you can.
“Even if you haven’t touched a drop in your life, you’ll know somebody that has been affected in a negative way, whether it’s a hangover or the victim of alcohol-related violence.”
Ocsober organisers hope to raise $750,000 for Life Education programs in schools to help young people understand the potentially harmful effects of alcohol and drugs on health.
To support Ms Sanders, go to fundraise.ocsober.com.au/kelli_sanders.
