2022 was a challenging year for Stu Munro. Covid, the flu, and then long Covid left him feeling depleted and unwell.

Determined to return to his fit and healthy self, Stu decided to give up alcohol for a year. But it wasn’t just about bouncing back, it was about giving back. 

“My father in-law passed away from pancreatic cancer a few years ago, so my kids will never get to know their Grandad Chris. And my mother is also a bowel cancer survivor”, explains Stu. 

Like so many of us, Stu’s family had been profoundly impacted by cancer. With 1 in 2 Kiwis diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, he was determined to do something to help.

Stu set up a Givealittle page and pledged to donate the cost of two pints of beer from his local every week to cancer research. He invited his friends and family to chip in too.

“Research feels like the front line - it's how we make real progress. It’s not just about hope; it’s about answers, outcomes, and ultimately changing the story for future patients”, explains Stu.

The response was overwhelming. “I was genuinely blown away by the support,” says Stu. “The donations were amazing – but what really stuck with me were the conversations it started. A year without booze isn’t the norm, so it sparked a bit of curiosity and maybe even courage in others.”

Stu ended up raising almost $9,000 – half of which went to Cancer Research Trust New Zealand, with the other half supporting the Rural Support Trust.

So, did he feel better after a year of no beer? 

“I definitely noticed an improved recovery from long Covid – and no hangovers was a bonus!” he laughs.

Thanks to Stu’s incredible mahi, not only did he improve his health, but he helped fuel innovative cancer research, bringing us one step closer to a future beyond cancer.