About Us
Protecting lives through awareness, education, and change.
We are a campaign dedicated to raising awareness of the hidden dangers of methanol. Born from personal tragedy, our mission is to turn loss into action—protecting others through education, advocacy, and change.
We share stories and updates through our social channels and news features, building a community of support for those affected. We are also working closely with MPs and advocating for urgent changes in the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office’s travel information, so that holidaymakers and travellers are properly warned of the risks.
By raising our voices together, we aim to prevent future harm and ensure no family has to face what we have endured.
Their Story
Our campaign began with heartbreak — the kind of loss that no family should ever endure.
In 2013, Cheznye Emmons, a vibrant young woman travelling in Indonesia, tragically lost her life after unknowingly drinking alcohol (from a sealed bottle) contaminated with methanol. Her death shocked her family and highlighted how invisible and deadly this danger is for travellers.
In Bali, Kirsty McKie, a talented ceramicist who had made the island her home, mistakenly consumed a drink that contained methanol, which she purchased from a reputable source. She fell ill and sadly passed away two days later in hospital. The inquest confirmed methanol poisoning, and the coroner emphasized the low awareness among tourists and expatriates about the dangers of unregulated local spirits...Another life cut short, another family left searching for answers and justice.
Then there’s Simone White, a brilliant 28-year-old lawyer from London. On holiday in Vang Vieng, Laos, she and her friend were given free shots at a hostel bar- Nana's Backerpacker Hostel. Within hours, both fell critically ill. Despite surgery and treatment, Simone’s condition could not be reversed, and she passed away on 21 November 2024.
In this case 6 others lost their lives and many suffer the consequences of methanol poisoning.
For Calum Macdonald, the outcome was different but equally life-changing. vodka laced with methanol caused him to lose his sight — altering the course of his future forever. His courage in sharing his story shows how survival does not always mean escape from tragedy.
Though their stories are different, the thread is the same: methanol poisoning destroys lives. It is often mis-sold as safe alcohol, leaving unsuspecting victims and devastated families in its wake.
We came together because no one should have to endure this pain again. Our campaign fights to raise awareness, spread vital information, and push for systemic change — from updating FCDO travel advice, to informing holidaymakers, to advocating worldwide so that lives are protected.
Cheznye, Kirsty, Simone, and Calum’s stories are at the heart of our mission. Their voices drive us forward, reminding us every day why this campaign must exist: to save others from the same fate.