Robert stopped smoking with the support of Yorkshire Smokefree in Barnsley. We did a quick Q&A with him and here's what he had to say...
What made you decide to join Yorkshire Smokefree?
Because I was so ill with my chest, I thought that’s it I am going to try to stop smoking. It's time to stop.
Tell us about your experience of the health issue(s) that meant you needed our services
My chest was a problem - I have been in hospital a few times and I just thought I have had enough.
What has the Yorkshire Smokefree team done for you? How have they helped?
The hospital gave me patches and the inhalator they helped me while I was in hospital, and they said that they would refer me to the Barnsley Stop Smoking service when I came home. Yorkshire Smokefree Barnsley where very helpful, the carbon monoxide readings really helped, and speaking to someone like Sarah my advisor about how I am doing helped me stay on track.
What were the most positive changes you made to your lifestyle?
I feel fitter in myself, it has made a big difference.
What did you find most difficult? And how did you overcome it?
The cravings. I went for food, and I have put on a little weight, but it will come off.
What health benefits / improvements in your life have you had since stopping smoking?
My breathing is better, I can walk a little more than before without getting out of breath.
How has stopping smoking changed your life?
I feel better in general. Talking to someone on a regular basis really helped.
Has anything in particular helped you through your problems? (eg attending a support group, exercise, volunteering, art, gardening etc) Can you tell us more about this?
The Face-to-Face reassurance from the stop smoking advisor Sarah really helped me, we talked things through and this helped.
Is there anything that you feel particularly proud of, that you may not have been able to do before you received support from Trust services?
That I have made my daughter and partner proud, now I am smoke free,
Is there any other information that you think is important to your story?
It is all important, if my story helps people to even think about stopping it’s a good a start.
