Russell, from Wakefield, had attended stop smoking clinics in the past with varying degrees of success. However, when his GP told him about a new tablet that could help him quit smoking, he decided it was time to give stopping another go and was referred to Yorkshire Smokefree.
When asked what had motivated him to quit this time, Russell's answer was simple.
"My health and age mainly, but an important factor was that a lot of my family members have had smoking-related illnesses, and I don't want to end up like that."
Following a full assessment at the Yorkshire Smokefree clinic at Sunbeams Family Hub in Lupset, Russell decided to try Cytisinicline, a medication derived from a naturally occurring plant alkaloid found in the laburnum plant.
With just one prescription and the support of his advisor, Julia, Russell was able to stop smoking within just five days.
"I was determined that I was going to stop smoking and give this quit my best shot," he said. "With the combination of the tablets, weekly calls from the service and a bit of willpower, I managed to do it."
Having tried to quit before, Russell knows that stopping smoking is not always easy, but this time he approached his quit attempt with a renewed sense of determination and the confidence that the right support could make all the difference.
The regular support he received from Julia helped keep him focused and motivated throughout his journey. Knowing that someone was there to encourage him each week gave him the accountability and reassurance he needed to succeed.
Today, Russell is proud to be smokefree and pleased that he has taken positive steps to protect his future health. His story shows that even if previous quit attempts haven't gone to plan, it is never too late to try again.
Russell's journey is proof that with determination, the right treatment, and expert support from Yorkshire Smokefree, it is possible to stop smoking for good. Congratulations Russell!
