Kiwis around the country have given up booze this month to raise money for a good cause, but there’s one group of lads who've gone all out to fundraise for their old man.
Leading the charge this year are the Plunkett brothers – Tom, Ben, William, and Olly. These four legends have ditched alcohol to support their dad, Tony Plunkett, who’s battling his second round of cancer.
Known for being the life of the party, they’ve pushed their drinking habits to the side to rally support for the cause close to their hearts.
SOURCE: Supplied
“The funds we raise will help provide practical, tangible support services aimed at making a difficult time a little easier for those battling cancer,” the boys said on their donations page.
“DAD (TONY) IS IN HIS SECOND ROUND OF CANCER, AND WE UNDERSTAND FIRSTHAND HOW MUCH THIS IMPACTS FAMILIES. WE ALL HAVE SOMEONE IN OUR LIVES WHO HAS FACED THE BIG C.”
Despite not getting involved with Dry July before, the brothers jumped straight into the challenge.
Tom says the support from family and friends has been unreal, motivating them to “make a significant impact”.
The other boys added: “We are lucky enough to live in a tight rural community where we are very well supported and have family and friends far and wide that have donated.”
Their UNREAL efforts of raising $7,265.26 have made them the top fundraisers in the country, and they’re aiming to hit their $8k mark by the end of the month.
Tom and Ben are farmers following in their dad’s footsteps, while William and Olly are pilots.
SOURCE: Supplied
Their story has gone viral in the farming community and beyond, with loads of backing from rural communities and local rugby teams.
Tony, their dad, couldn’t be prouder: “I’ve been blown away by the support the boys have received from our family, friends and community quite humbling really. Super proud of my 4 sons to take this challenge on, it is such a good cause and they’re doing so well.”
The Plunkett brothers are proving that family and community can make a huuuuge difference.
As they say: “It’s a bit of a challenge, but it’s nothing compared to what cancer patients go through – we can suck it up for 30 days, mind over matter.”
On ya boys, you’re doing great stuff.
