Ann, from Sheffield, was invited for a free lung health check. What she discovered scared her and she decided now was the time to quit smoking. Here's her story in her own words...
When I was invited for an LHC scan because of my age and smoking history, I never imagined it would change my life. Being told I had emphysema came as a real shock. You always hear about the health risks of smoking, but you never think it will happen to you. When it does, it is scary.
When I was younger, people did not really know as much about the long-term effects of smoking as they do now. If I am honest, I never thought too much about it. Hearing that diagnosis made me stop and think about what the future could look like if I carried on smoking.
I knew I could not undo the damage that had already been done, but I could do something to stop it getting worse. I have children and grandchildren, and I want to be around for them for as long as possible. I did not want them to see me becoming more poorly if there was something I could do to help myself.
The Lung Health Check team were amazing and referred me to Smokefree Sheffield. From the very beginning, I felt supported. They provided me with tablets that helped me hugely. They did not take away the cravings completely, but they made them much easier to deal with. Even now, I still get the odd thought about having a cigarette, but I have learned that if I keep myself busy or distract myself, the feeling soon passes.
What really stood out to me about Smokefree Sheffield was how much they listened. There was no judgement, no pressure, and no expectations that I had to attend group sessions if I did not want to. The regular phone calls worked perfectly for me. It felt like there was always someone there to encourage me and keep me going when I needed it most.
Since stopping smoking, I have noticed so many positive changes. I do not cough half as much as I used to, especially first thing in the morning. I have more energy, food tastes better, and I can honestly say I cannot stand the smell of cigarettes anymore.
Looking back, deciding to quit smoking is one of the best things I have ever done for myself. My family are incredibly proud of me, and that means everything. More importantly, I am proud of myself too.
I would encourage anyone who is thinking about stopping smoking to give it a go. The support is there, and you do not have to do it alone. You have to believe in yourself and really want to make the change, but it is absolutely worth it. If I can do it, anyone can.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Ann. We wish you all the best for a healthy smoke-free future.
