Isobel from Calderdale is proud of her inspirational smokefree story of self-belief, she is feeling good, breathing more easily and saving a heap of cash. We spoke to her about her experience using our expert services.
What was your main reason for quitting?
I wished to stop smoking to focus mainly on my health, as I suffer from COPD. I was also motivated by financial reasons, smoking was an expensive habit, keeping me from enjoying what I really wanted.
Did you believe you could achieve 4 weeks Smokefree?
Yes, I fully believed in myself and knew that I could stop smoking with enough determination. I never doubted myself, I just needed that push from Yorkshire Smokefree to get me started.
Have you used stop smoking medication to help you quit?
I’ve used Champix, because I find it so effective for me. It’s been very helpful when I’m dealing with cravings and staying strong. I’ve been smoke-free for nearly 6 months now!
Apart from medication, what else helped you to quit and stay smokefree?
Before the lockdown, I attended a stop smoking group for support which I enjoyed and found helpful. Since then I’ve had phone support which I find reassuring knowing someone is there to talk to if I need it.
Has your health improved since you quit and if so, in what ways?
I’m breathing easier than I ever was, my sense of taste and smell is constantly improving and my skin is getting clearer, less dull and more glowing! I’ve started a healthier diet and I have more energy to exercise at home and go on walks now.
It’s great not smelling of smoke. You don’t realise how unpleasant it is until you sit next to a smoker then you think ‘Did I smell like that?!’
Other than health, have you achieved anything since quitting that you couldn’t do whilst smoking?
I’ve had the energy and motivation to start decorating my home and put up lovely wallpaper in my bathroom. The state of your home, body and mood really flow from your mindset and positivity.
Has the current lockdown helped with your quit or has this made quitting harder?
I’m taking each day as it comes; lockdown hasn’t really made much difference to me staying smokefree because I’m confident I won’t smoke again.
What have you found helpful accessing the service via the Telephone?
I’ve found the phone support extremely beneficial during shaky moments and it’s definitely helped to have the regular calls.
What would you say to other smokers?
Go for it – you’ll feel much better! If someone had told me years ago what a difference quitting would make, I’d have thrown the cigarettes away then and there.
If you feel inspired by Isobel’s story and would like support in quitting, or to register for a Callback Request today.
