Like most people, I know too many people who have had cancer. In my case, both my elder brother and my mother died far too young because of it.

I have had problems with drinking. Although these days I would classify myself as a social drinker, in the past it has caused me a great deal of trouble. It has cost me a degree, a job and several friendships. I have had health problems, both physical and mental, because of it, culminating in a suicide attempt that left me in a coma for two weeks. Breaking the habit for this month will help me stop entirely. If I can raise awareness and money along the way, that's a good thing.