Glyn started smoking at the young age of 13 during a particularly stressful period in his life. After his parents split up, Glyn’s dad enrolled him in an approved residential school. “The first six months were really stressful, and that’s when I started smoking,” Glyn recalls. However, as time passed, he began to enjoy his school experience, but the smoking habit stayed with him.
Initially, Glyn smoked roll-ups before switching to cigarettes later on, continuing to smoke for around 40 years. “It became such a normal part of my life that I didn’t fully realise the grip it had on me.”
When Glyn decided to quit, he turned to nicotine replacement therapy. “I started with patches and gum. The patches helped, but they caused some vivid dreams, so I decided to stick with just the gum.” Glyn has found the gum so effective that he plans to continue using it if cravings arise.
Weekly support calls from his stop smoking advisor were also a lifeline. “It really helped having someone check in with me regularly. On top of that, several of my family members quit at the same time as me, which was a big motivator.”
Since quitting, Glyn has noticed significant improvements in his health. “I can go for a walk now without feeling out of breath, which is amazing.” He’s also been able to treat himself with the money he’s saved. “I bought a smart watch and a new coat—things I wouldn’t have bought before because I was spending that money on cigarettes.”
Reflecting on his journey, Glyn feels strongly about his decision to quit. “Knowing what I know now about smoking, I’d run a mile before I ever tried a cigarette. I’ve done my own research, and I’m shocked at all the nasty chemicals in them.”
Glyn’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to make a positive change. With support, determination, and the right tools, a smoke-free future is possible.
