For Alan, the decision to stop smoking was about looking after his future. He wanted to improve his health, be fit enough for the surgery he was waiting for, and, most importantly, be there to see his grandchildren grow up and get married.
"I decided to stop smoking for myself, but also for my grandchildren. I want to be around to see them grow up and enjoy all those important moments in their lives."
After being advised by the hospital that he needed to stop smoking before his operation, Alan contacted Yorkshire Smokefree and began attending face-to-face appointments at the service's clinic in Normanton.
Having never tried to quit smoking before, Alan admits he was unsure what to expect and felt a little anxious at the beginning of his journey.
"I'd never tried to stop smoking before, so I didn't really know what would happen. My advisor made me feel comfortable straight away and explained everything clearly."
The information and support he received, along with the leaflets and booklet provided, helped him understand what to expect and gave him confidence throughout his quit attempt.
To manage his cravings, Alan used 25mg nicotine patches before gradually reducing to 10mg as his confidence grew. Twelve weeks later, he is proudly smokefree and no longer needs to wear the patches every day.
Alan says the regular face-to-face appointments and seeing his carbon monoxide (CO) readings improve were two of the biggest factors in helping him stay motivated.
"The fortnightly appointments and seeing my CO readings come down really kept me on track."
Since quitting smoking, Alan has noticed a whole range of positive changes. Food tastes better than ever, his breathing has improved, and he can now walk up hills without becoming so out of breath. He also feels much more confident knowing he is doing everything he can to prepare for his surgery.
"There are lots of things I enjoy now I'm smokefree. I can taste my food properly again – a fried egg sandwich actually tastes like a fried egg sandwich!"
One of Alan's favourite pastimes is fishing with friends. Although they occasionally offer him a cigarette, he says he now takes great satisfaction in politely handing it back.
"I never thought I'd be able to do that."
Looking back, Alan is proud of what he has achieved and hopes his story will inspire others to take the first step.
"Have a go. Believe in yourself and have a bit of willpower. You'll never know if you can do it until you try."
Alan's journey shows that it's never too late to quit smoking. With expert support, determination and the right stop smoking treatment, becoming smokefree can improve your health, boost your confidence and help you look forward to the future.
