For Cheryl, living with COPD meant there was an important reason to stop smoking – her health.
She had tried to quit before, but this time felt different. Fewer people around her were smoking and, most importantly, Cheryl felt the time was right to try again.
Despite this, she admits she wasn't very confident when she started her quit attempt. With support from Smokefree Sheffield, however, Cheryl found an approach that worked for her.
She used Varenicline to help her stop smoking and found the medication really helpful. As the weeks passed, noticing improvements in her health gave her even more motivation to keep going.
Since becoming smoke free, Cheryl has seen some significant changes.
"My breathing is much better. I haven't had to use my nebuliser recently and I've had no chest infections for the past four months."
She's also enjoying no longer having the smell of cigarette smoke around her – as well as the extra money she's saving by not buying cigarettes.
Throughout her quit journey, Cheryl has received regular support from Smokefree Sheffield. While she has found her telephone appointments helpful, she particularly values being able to receive support face-to-face.
"I'm grateful to have support from the service. The telephone appointments are really helpful, but face-to-face is better."
Cheryl's experience also shows why a previous quit attempt shouldn't stop someone from trying again. Even though she wasn't particularly confident at the beginning, finding the right time, treatment and support has helped her successfully become smoke free.
Her advice to anyone thinking about quitting is:
"Don't give up. You have to want to stop – and when you're ready, get the support you need."
With free, personalised support from Smokefree Sheffield, you don't have to quit alone. The team can help you find the right treatment and provide support throughout your journey to becoming smoke free. Call us on 0800 612 0011 to book your first appointment.
