What was your reasons for stopping smoking?
My biggest reason for stopping smoking was health. I have suffered a heart attack, and it caused a big scare. This made me try and give up smoking.
Have you stopped smoking previously?
I tried stopping smoking before without any support from any service. I bought some patches, but they didn’t work at the time. Having support from the Smokefree Sheffield service helped. It gave me more determination to continue.
Before your first appointment, did you believe you would be successful?
I had mixed thoughts – I wanted to stop, but I didn’t think I would be able to as I had an unsuccessful attempt before.
Did you use stop smoking medication to help you quit?
I used patches again to help with my cravings. I have used them before, but they never worked. I have given them a second go, and this time they have helped.
Apart from medication, what else helped you to quit and stay smokefree?
I stayed off work for a while which meant I was away from other smokers at work who would usually gather around the car park shelter to smoke. So, avoiding my cigarette breaks helped. Now I am smokefree I no longer need to go into the shelter for a cigarette.
What do you like the most about being a non-smoker / quit?
I don’t smell of cigarettes anymore. I’m feeling better and healthier. I don’t feel bad for smoking any more and having to go out for a cigarette.
Has your health improved since you quit, and if so, in what ways?
I put a bit of weight as a result, but I still feel a lot healthier.
Other than health, have you achieved anything since quitting that you couldn’t do whilst smoking?
My finances have improved. Even when I used to smoke, I always tried to save money by buying tobacco when going abroad, as it was cheaper that way. I no longer need to do that and have saved money.
What have you found helpful whilst accessing the Yorkshire Smokefree service?
Patches were free of charge, so I didn’t have to spend money on them as they were quite expensive. Advisors calling up for a chat regularly helped a lot as well. It’s a great service, and I hope you carry on with your support.
