After several unsuccessful attempts to quit smoking, Stewart had almost given up hope of ever becoming smokefree. But a recent health scare gave him the motivation he needed to try again, and this time, with support from Yorkshire Smokefree, he's celebrating a fantastic achievement.
Stewart is now four weeks smokefree and determined to stay that way!
Following a recent cancer scare, Stewart began thinking more seriously about his health and the importance of making positive changes for the future. Thankfully, he received the all-clear, but the experience was enough to make him reconsider his smoking habit.
“My reason for contacting Yorkshire Smokefree was that I have had a recent cancer scare. I am pleased to say I am OK, but it makes you think about your health a little more, and I am stopping for good this time.”
Despite his determination, Stewart admits that his confidence wasn't particularly high. Having tried unsuccessfully to stop smoking several times before, he struggled to believe he could finally quit.
In fact, even his wife and friends were doubtful he'd manage it!
“I did not believe for a second I could do this. My wife and my friends also said there is no way you will stop smoking, so I had a £100 bet on with a friend.”
But Stewart was ready to prove everyone wrong, including himself.
With the help of Yorkshire Smokefree, Stewart was prescribed varenicline, a stop smoking medication that helped reduce his desire to smoke. Combined with regular one-to-one appointments at his local health centre, the support made a real difference.
Stewart credits his stop smoking advisor with helping him stay focused and motivated throughout his journey.
“My advisor was brilliant, she kept me on track and the one-to-one sessions at the Health Centre helped me so much. Without this I do not believe I could have QUIT.”
And the benefits of quitting are already making themselves felt.
Just four weeks into his smokefree journey, Stewart has noticed improvements in his sense of taste and smell, alongside increased energy levels. He's also enjoying the financial benefits of no longer buying cigarettes.
In fact, he's already thinking about putting those savings towards a new hobby!
“My health has improved, I can smell and taste food much better now, my energy levels have improved. I am even thinking about buying a pushbike now with the money that I have saved and the £100 bet that I won!!”
For someone who once doubted he'd ever manage to quit, Stewart's achievement is something to be incredibly proud of.
And perhaps one of the biggest changes is the confidence he now feels when faced with a cigarette.
“It feels great now to say ‘No thank you’ to anyone who offers me a cigarette.”
Stewart's story is a brilliant reminder that previous quit attempts don't define your future success. With the right support, effective stop smoking treatments and a little determination, becoming smokefree is possible, even when you don't believe you can do it.
Whether it's your first attempt or you've tried to quit before, Yorkshire Smokefree offers free, friendly and personalised support to help you take that first step towards a healthier, smokefree future.
