David stopped smoking with the support of Smokefree Sheffield. At the end of his 12 week quit programme we asked him for a quick Q&A. Here's what he had to say.
Hi David. What were your reasons for stopping smoking?
"Firstly, I’ve been smoking too long and my chest hurt. I started at the age of 15, so I’ve been smoking for 59 years. Secondly, I was referred for a lung cancer scan, I got the results back and I found out I got COPD which made me more determined to quit."
Have you stopped smoking previously?
"Never."
Before your first appointment, did you believe you would be successful?
"Yes, I think I did think I would stop. I was determined!"
Did you use stop smoking medication to help you quit?
"Yes, initially I had patches and inhalators and they didn’t work at all. Then I switched to vapes and I found them better because they mimic the habit. I found the vapes very helpful."
Apart from using a vape, what else helped you to quit and stay smokefree?
"Determination and ongoing support. I don’t think I could do it on my own".
What do you like the most about been a non-smoker / quit?
"I’m breathing better. My coughing has subsided quite a bit and I’ve already saved £560 in 45 days!"
Has your health improved since your quit and if so, in what ways?
"My breathing is a lot better - I think at least 50% better when walking up the stairs".
Other than health, have you achieved anything since quitting that you couldn’t do whilst smoking?
"I do more of my photography now".
What have you found helpful whilst accessing Sheffield Smokefree service?
"The support. Thank you for supporting me through this".
