After 40 years of smoking, Jeanette, 58, has successfully quit with the support of Yorkshire Smokefree in Barnsley and the difference to her health and wellbeing has been life-changing!
Living with COPD, Jeanette knew that stopping smoking was important for her health. She was also spending at least £150 a month on cigarettes and wanted to put that money towards better things.
Having tried to quit two or three times before without success, Jeanette admits she wasn't completely confident this time either.
"I felt 50/50 about it, but at 58, I considered this to be my last shot at quitting smoking."
This time, however, Jeanette's mindset was different.
With the help of Varenicline, a stop smoking medication she specifically requested, and regular encouragement from her Yorkshire Smokefree advisor, Jeanette found the support she needed.
She describes the medication as "amazing", but says the relationship with her advisor was just as important.
"My advisor kept calling to check in regularly. She was lovely, friendly and approachable. She put me at ease, and I looked forward to her calls."
Since becoming smokefree, Jeanette has noticed some incredible improvements.
💙 She's breathing more easily and no longer suffers from the constant coughing that used to be so severe it made her sick.
💙 Her COPD symptoms have improved significantly, and she says she hasn't needed to use her blue reliever inhaler since quitting.
💙 Her home and clothes no longer smell of cigarettes, something she really appreciates.
💙 She's saving money and enjoying spending it on things that matter more to her.
And Jeanette has achieved something else she's incredibly proud of - alongside quitting tobacco after 40 years, she's also broken a 26-year cannabis habit.
Looking back, Jeanette wants others who are thinking about quitting to know that it's never too late to make a change.
"I would advise anyone who is thinking about quitting that it is never too late. The benefits outweigh any negatives. Anyone who suffers with their breathing, get help and support to quit. It is unreal not to be wheezing all the time. You can do this!"
A huge congratulations to Jeanette on this fantastic achievement!
If Jeanette's story has inspired you, remember that you don't have to quit alone. Yorkshire Smokefree offers FREE, friendly and personalised support to help you on your journey towards a smokefree life.
