Dave had successfully quit smoking before, staying smoke free for an incredible 12 years. But after the loss of his wife, he found himself returning to cigarettes during an incredibly difficult period in his life.
Over time, smoking began to take its toll.
"I was becoming breathless and I didn't like how expensive cigarettes had become, so I knew stopping smoking was the best way forward."
This time, Dave decided he didn't have to do it alone. He contacted Yorkshire Smokefree Barnsley, where he received one-to-one support from a dedicated stop smoking advisor.
"I started with face-to-face appointments, which I found really helpful and supportive. Later, we moved to telephone appointments, and they were just as encouraging. It was reassuring to know the support was always there."
Although Dave admits he felt sceptical before he started and worried that he might not succeed, he drew strength from a personal motto that has guided him through life.
"I remembered the saying I live by: 'Don't fear what you do, do what you fear.' Now quitting smoking is no longer something I fear."
With the help of nicotine patches, lozenges and regular chewing gum to manage cravings, Dave successfully became smoke free.
Since quitting, he's already noticed positive changes.
"I'm not quite as breathless anymore. I've also realised I can smell cigarette smoke on other people much more now."
One of the biggest changes has been how he feels about himself.
"Now I'm smoke free, I feel like I'm one of the majority, not the minority."
Looking back, Dave says the combination of professional support and stop smoking medication made all the difference.
"The advice from my Yorkshire Smokefree advisor, together with the patches and lozenges, really helped me. Chewing regular gum also made a big difference when cravings hit."
Dave hopes his story will encourage others to take that first step towards quitting.
"Do it. If not for yourself, do it for your kids, parents or family. Hopefully by quitting you'll live longer and reduce your chances of developing other health problems."
Yorkshire Smokefree Barnsley offers free, personalised support, expert advice and stop smoking treatments to help people quit smoking for good. Whatever your reason for stopping, support is available every step of the way.
