SONIA MCGIVERN

Febfast 2026

Why I Febfast

As a 50-year-old Irish person living in Australia who has experienced grief and loss, choosing to do FebFast holds deep personal significance. Alcohol has traditionally been a part of my cultural and social life, often serving as a way to connect and cope. However, through my experiences with grief, I have come to understand how alcohol can sometimes complicate healing and mental health. By committing to FebFast, I am taking a deliberate step to support my emotional well-being and honor my journey through loss. This period of abstinence also allows me to raise awareness about the impact of alcohol on mental health and suicide, encouraging open conversations and support within both the Irish community and the wider Australian society. It is a meaningful way to foster resilience, promote healing, and contribute to suicide prevention efforts.

MY PROGRESS

Check out my Febfast calendar to see my progress! You can choose a date to sponsor me with a One-OFF Pass. It will give me a night off my challenge while still supporting Australians in crisis.

MY IMPACT SO FAR

I've raised $181 so far - that's 4 calls answered for Lifeline's crisis support hotline.

Every $39 helps power another call, offering hope and crucial moments of connection to people in their toughest moments. Will you back me with a donation?

impact counter 4

Calls Answered

My Achievements

Donated to myself

Updated profile pic

Shared on social

Received first donation

Reached fundraising goal

My Updates

Every 24 seconds, someone in Australia reaches out to Lifeline 
for help

Saturday 31st Jan

That’s more than 3,000 people every single day who just need someone to listen. By skipping the sip for one month, I’m not only giving my body a break – I’m helping make sure Lifeline can be there, anytime and anywhere, for the people who need it most.
It’s a small challenge for me, but it could mean life-changing support for someone else.

Together we can ensure Lifeline can continue to be there 24/7 so that no one has to face their toughest moments alone.

Lets Chat

Saturday 31st Jan
As a 50-year-old Irish person living in Australia who has experienced grief and loss, choosing to do FebFast holds deep personal significance. Alcohol has traditionally been a part of my cultural and social life, often serving as a way to connect and cope. However, through my experiences with grief, I have come to understand how alcohol can sometimes complicate healing and mental health. By committing to FebFast, I am taking a deliberate step to support my emotional well-being and honor my journey through loss. This period of abstinence also allows me to raise awareness about the impact of alcohol on mental health and suicide, encouraging open conversations and support within both the Irish community and the wider Australian society. It is a meaningful way to foster resilience, promote healing, and contribute to suicide prevention efforts.

Thank you to my Sponsors

$100

Caroline Mcquoid

Good luck hen!

$42.39

Margaret Flynn

Good woman yourself xx

$39

Sonia Mcgivern

We're here to listen.

If you or someone you know is feeling overwhelmed or struggling with thoughts of suicide, please contact Lifeline at anytime 24 hours/7 days a week.

Lifeline Call 24/7: 13 11 14 Lifeline Text 24/7: 0477 13 11 14 Online Chat 24/7: lifeline.org.au