I grew up in a pub in the 1980s, when it was completely normal to light up indoors, whether you were having a meal, a drink, or just chatting with friends. As a kid, I remember the thick fog of tobacco smoke hanging in the air. Looking back, I dread to think what it did to all of us.
I had my first cigarette at 15. It was disgusting and made me cough, but I kept going, I thought it made me look cool. Years later, on a hike in the Lake District, I found myself gasping for breath and realised something had to change. I gave up smoking after a few false starts, but would sometimes return to it during stressful times, especially when money or relationships were tough.
In 2015, I switched to vaping. I had all the gear and flavours, but eventually gave that up too, it all started to taste the same. After a difficult divorce in 2021, I briefly returned to smoking, but meeting my now-wife changed everything. She was heartbroken to see me hurting myself, and that was the final push I needed. I quit for good.
Since then, I’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure and now take daily medication. I run three times a week, walk whenever I can, and try to eat well. I’m not perfect, but I’m so much healthier than I was, no cigarettes, no alcohol, just a commitment to being a better version of myself.
My dad’s story also pushed me to share mine. He smoked all his life and recently needed emergency surgery for a blocked artery. He’s doing better now, but it’s a reminder of how smoking can silently take its toll. He can no longer do simple things like run for the bus or carry boxes from the loft — not because of age alone, but because of decades of smoking.
We often tell ourselves, “It’s just one cigarette,” or “I’ll quit later.” But those small choices add up. Smoking doesn’t just affect us, it affects our families, our futures, and the time we have with the people we love.
I’m lucky. My dad is still here. But I know that might not always be the case. If sharing this helps even one person make a change, it’s worth it.
Shared by a Somerset resident, proud to be smoke-free
If you have been thinking about stopping smoking, our free Smokefree Somerset service are here to help you find the best solution to quit for good. You can contact the team online via their website www.smokefreesomerset.org.uk or over the phone 01823 356222, or via email smokefree@somerset.gov.uk
