What started as a simple referral and recommendation has turned into so much more.
I didn’t really have a choice about stopping smoking, I had to. I have COPD and can barely breathe at times. It got so bad that just walking upstairs left me completely breathless, and at only 39, that’s frightening. I realised that if I want to live longer, I either put the cigarettes down or accept that my condition and quality of life will continue to decline.
I originally asked for Varenicline after hearing good things about it, but my GP couldn’t prescribe it because of other medication I’m taking. When I joined Yorkshire Smokefree Calderdale, they offered me a vape, but I’d already bought my own. To everyone’s surprise, especially my advisor, Sally, I managed to quit smoking three days ago!
It’s still hard, but I keep reminding myself that I don’t have a choice.
I was encouraged to use nicotine patches alongside my vape, and that combination has worked for me. I’ve been smokefree since 6th October 2025, and I’m still checking in with Yorkshire Smokefree. The support I’m getting, along with the changes I’ve made, is really helping.
I know I still have COPD, but since giving up cigarettes, I’m not as breathless doing simple things like walking upstairs. That alone has made a huge difference to my quality of life.
And the money I’m saving has been a bonus. I’ve been able to buy things for my flat, and it feels good knowing that the money I used to burn away is now actually benefiting me.
Well done on your quit, Luke. Your advisor Sally is incredibly proud of you!
