I’m Christopher, and I’m 67 years old. After smoking for 50 years, earlier this year I went in for a lung scan, and although the results were clear, it was a wake-up call. I decided to join a smoking cessation group that provided nicotine replacement therapy (NRT).
I tried all the Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) options available and found that Quickmist worked best for me. I didn’t seek much support from friends or family, instead I relied on the Smokefree Somerset groups and my own determination. Within a week of joining the group, my journey began. It’s now been 165 days, and I’ve saved over £2000!
The biggest challenges I faced were weight gain and the temptation to sneak back to smoking. However, my determination to improve my health and the support from the group kept me going. My clothes and teeth are fresher, and even my dentist noticed the difference during a check-up.
One of the key factors that helped me succeed was keeping busy and not rewarding myself with NRT every time I accomplished something. I now only use the spray in the evenings, and a bottle lasts over a week as I continue to reduce my usage.
Quitting smoking has significantly improved my health. I can breathe better, taste food, and smell things more clearly. My teeth are cleaner, and I’ve noticed positive changes in my lifestyle. We’ve even started cleaning and redecorating the smoking room to reclaim it as our dining room.
The most rewarding aspect of quitting has been the health benefits, and the money saved. My advice to anyone trying to quit is to be in the right mindset and consider joining a support group. If I can do it, so can you. Just keep going, and don’t give up. Thank you to everyone who supported me along the way.
Quitting wasn’t easy, but every reason added up. My health, my family, my freedom it all mattered. And now, I’m proud to say I’m smoke-free.
What’s your why?
If you’re thinking about quitting, you don’t have to do it alone. Smokefree Somerset offers free, friendly support to help you take the first step—and keep going.
👉 Visit: Smokefree Somerset
📞 Call: 01823 356222 to speak to a trained advisor. Available 9am to 5pm
📧 Email: smokefree@somerset.gov.uk
Your reason is enough. Let us help you find your way to smokefree.
