Barbara

Supporting image for Barbara

How old were you when you started smoking?

I was 14 years old when I started smoking, and I was smoking around 20 cigarettes a day. 

What were your reasons for quitting?

One day I went to the toilet and saw blood in my urine. The hospital consultant asked me to stop smoking and to not waste his time, so I knew it was serious and that it was time to quit. 

Did you use stop smoking medication to help you quit?

I used lozenges to quit and I couldn't have stopped without them.

What else has helped you stay smokefree? 

Finding out that I had cancer.

Has your health improved since you quit?

Yes, my breathing is better, and my skin has improved.

What do you like about not smoking?

Food tastes better, I'm feeling healthier in myself, I'm sleeping better, and my breathing has improved.

Do you know how much money you've saved by not smoking?

In four months, I've managed to save £1,040 as I used to spend over £70 a week! With that money I'm now treating myself all the time. 

What would you say to anyone who has recently started smoking?

Don't do it. Please don't do it.