Connect-To-Quit

Using Combination of Medications

moderator — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 15:46:00 GMT

In a recent comment for one of the posts, a person mentions better results by using a combination of nicotine replacement therapies. The public health guidelines also recognize this as more effective than just using a single type of medication like the patch, gum or lozenge. The studies looked at people who used patches for continued supply of nicotine and gum when you're having a craving. The results were very good.

Although the FDA has not supported using multiple types of NRT, many doctors are starting to encourage people to do this. Just make sure that you ask a doctor or a pharmacist about this.

Desperate...

moderator — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 15:06:00 GMT

Desperate to quit for health reasons...

Sandy W.

I will not give up...

moderator — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 15:57:00 GMT

I resolved to quit smoking on 1/1/10. I am using Chantix to help and have had urges to smoke but did not give in until this morning...now I feel bad about it. I have smoked for about 34 years and it is hard to quit....I will not give up trying.

Cheryl H.

Problems with Chantix...

moderator — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 18:44:00 GMT

I've been trying Chantix but it seems to be really upsetting my stomach. Have any solutions?

Christina K.

Giving it up for GASO...

moderator — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:51:00 GMT

As I'm chewing a piece of nicotine gum, all I can think about is having just one more smoke. Will add the patch before bed, so the a.m. won't be so bad. Plan to focus on the Smokeout with all of my might. Good luck to everyone.

Janis L.

Giving it up for GASO...

moderator — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 01:18:00 GMT

Looking for input...

moderator — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:32:00 GMT

Hi all, I'm in the process of helping several organizations plan events to promote the Great American Smoke-Out coming up on Thursday November 19, 2009, and wanted to see if I could get any of you smokers or former smokers out there to share your thoughts on the best way to promote this event. For anyone who isn't aware, the Great American Smoke-Out is an annual event where tobacco users across the country are challenged to pledge to quit for at least 24 hours. Being a non-smoker myself, I would appreciate any insight you have to offer!

Becky H.

Only 5 days in...

moderator — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 22:21:00 GMT

I'm 5 days in and having a bad time.

Cathy S.

I'm here to help...

moderator — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 21:48:00 GMT

Hey everyone, my name is Jon. I'm a coach here at the Arizona Smokers' Helpline (ASHLine). I'll be around to try and answer any questions you may have, as well as hopefully imparting some of my infinite wisdom. I will be in and out throughout the day. This is on top of my regular work hours, so if I haven't gotten around to something that you feel is important don't take it too personally. See you around!

Coach V

Just wondering...

moderator — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:09:00 GMT

I quit 19 days ago and am wondering how long physical addiction lasts?

Still quit...

moderator — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 21:52:00 GMT

13 days and still not smoking!

Cheryl H.

My first weekend without smoking...

moderator — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 18:30:00 GMT

I made it through my first weekend withoutsmoking! On day 6. I can actually take a deep breath and I can smelland taste better. Can't afford to get my car professionally cleaned andI can still smell the smoke but hey, that's what sprays are for!

Cheryl H.

I did it...

moderator — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 21:15:00 GMT

Well, yesterday was my 53rd birthday and I had planned to quit smoking. And I accomplished it! I smoked for 39 years. Today is day 2. I walked 2 miles at lunch. And I feel pretty darn good. I have moments that feel like restlessness but they go as quickly as they come. I am using the patch and have lots of support at home and work.

Cheryl H.

Still towing the line...

moderator — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 04:15:00 GMT

Not much has changed since my last post, still smokefree, a couple pounds heavier. Who else out there is kicking the habit? Keep us posted, let us know how your quit is going.

Smokelessjoe

One year, two months, one week, six days, 21 hours, 8 minutes and 2 seconds. 12344 cigarettes not smoked, saving $3,703.40. Life saved: 6 weeks, 20 hours, 40 minutes.

Still smokeless and feeling strong...

moderator — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 02:00:00 GMT

I am getting used to not smoking and the lure of the NICODEMON is getting quieter. We need to hear from some other quitters out there! How is it going? A big part of a successful quit is developing a support system and re-programming your brain.

Smokelessjoe

One year, one month, two weeks, three days, 18 hours, 54 minutes and 53 seconds. 11586 cigarettes not smoked, saving $3,475.81. Life saved: 5 weeks, 5 days, 5 hours, 30 minutes.

Giving this another try...

moderator — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 18:42:00 GMT

Hi, I'm new here. Quit smoking almost five years ago for 20 to 21 months, then I went back to smoking -- just proves that no matter what, you can't ever take the one puff. So, I smoked for 3 more years & here I am again. Today marks 3 weeks without a cigarette. Having a hard time staying quit today, headache -- determined not to smoke -- can't wait for the cravings to stop. Thanks for letting me vent.

Susan

I've done it...

moderator — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 07:15:00 GMT

I did it! I feel like I won the world series or the superbowl. I made a year without puffing on a little nicotine-chemical thing rolled up in paper known as a cigarette! After almost 30 years and many failed attempts, it is a miracle. One day at a time, 365 Times! I am far from winning, but right now my heart and lungs are celebrating.

Smokelessjoe's Meter:
One year, 13 minutes and 2 seconds. 10220 cigarettes not smoked, saving $3,066.08. Life saved: 5 weeks, 11 hours, 40 minutes.

smokelessjoe

Here we go...

moderator — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 21:46:00 GMT

Here we go. Day 1 after 15 years of smoking. I feel free as bird and scared to death. Of course, death is what I am afraid of so I am quitting. Weird how nervous I am about being healthy again. I'll see you tomorrow.

gra2472

Nearing the 1 year mark...

moderator — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 04:45:00 GMT

WOW, the big year approaches - I can't believe I am doing it! Or not doing it!

All is well, put on some weight, but the doctor is happy with my health and lung functions. I quit because I didn't want to die a slow painful nicotine death grasping for air. I need to remember that when I romance any thoughts of smoking. How is everyone else doing?

Eleven months, one week, five days, 21 hours, 28 minutes and 53 seconds. 9741 cigarettes not smoked, saving $2,922.31. Life saved: 4 weeks, 5 days, 19 hours, 45 minutes.

smokelessjoe

What about the cravings...

moderator — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 20:30:00 GMT

It'll be one week for me tomorrow, June 10. There were terrible cravings on Saturday; I wasn't a very pleasant person to be around. So, according to this blog, the cravings don't lessen in intensity very soon. Am I right?

Sandy

10 months and still counting...

moderator — Thu, 28 May 2009 02:00:00 GMT

Over 10 months and still smoke free. It's hard to believe, I sometimes think it's a dream. I never thought I could do it! You can do it too, just make a plan, re-train your brain, get support, use a nicotine replacement if you like, and don't take the first puff! Here's a support group I belong to: http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/Kickbutts-nosmoking/

smokelessjoe

Ten months, one week, four days, 18 hours, 48 minutes and 16 seconds. 8841 cigarettes not smoked, saving $2,652.58. Life saved: 4 weeks, 2 days, 16 hours, 45 minutes.

15 days...

moderator — Sat, 09 May 2009 19:30:00 GMT

..and i haven't picked up a cigarette.

my number one reason for quitting: my girlfriend. i love this woman more than i can ever remember loving anyone. she's who i'm supposed to be with. i want to spend as much time as i can with her on this planet. so, i kicked the habit and i feel great about it.

i'm not gonna lie.. it's not easy. it's been an uphill struggle. i smoked for 13 years and i had a craving so intense the other night at work, i really thought i was going to crack but i didn't give in. i refuse to let anything control my life but me. and what people need to remember is this is an addiction. it's doing exactly what an addiction is supposed to do. take control of you. life can happen without cigarettes. one day at a time.

this really helped me and hopefully it can help you too!

Chris

I have to quit because I hate it...

moderator — Wed, 06 May 2009 19:15:00 GMT

My first day of quitting was not successful, I don't know why that happened. Anyway, I'm here to face my smoking addiction. I will try again tomorrow...I have to go ahead with quitting.

Hamid

I want to start quitting now...

moderator — Tue, 05 May 2009 20:30:00 GMT

Hi Everyone

I am Hamid from Iran and currently living in Mysore, India. I really decide to quite and i will, but just need some one hear my voice. Every day I will right my experiment of each day.

Ok see you later .......

Hamid

Celebrating one month but not out of the woods yet...

moderator — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 19:00:00 GMT

Today is my one month anniversary from this nasty habit!

I'm so excited to be smoke free and so thankful that the nicodemon did not win last night when I had a couple pretty wicked cravings. I miss having small urges occasionally which has now reversed back to huge cravings. I had to physically leave the pool hall last night because I was afraid I was going to cave and buy a cigarette from a smoker. I hate that nicotine still has that much control over me!

I ran out of my 2 week supply of Chantix and I can feel the difference! I placed a call into my doctor's office...hopefully they will give me a refill.

In the meantime, my reason for quitting has been scheduled. I go in for spinal surgery June 15th. I just keep reminding myself if I have even one puff, it will throw off my recovery rate. (Please doctor, call me back and give me that Chantix refill!)

Thanks for letting me vent.

Ann Marie

Trying to think and act like a non-smoker...

moderator — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 07:03:00 GMT

Approaching 9 months, I can't believe I am doing it. 3/4 of the way to year! Feeling more confident as the cravings are decreasing. Still trying to think and act like a non-smoker. Not missing the cost of smokes, I noticed the prices rising. I started a quit smoking support group called "Kickbutts" at:

http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/Kickbutts-nosmoking/

Can't wait to celebrate that first year, but it is a day at a time. Thanks for listening.

smokelessjoe

Eight months, three weeks, six days, 23 hours, 51 minutes and 14 seconds. 7587 cigarettes not smoked, saving $2,181.50. Life saved: 3 weeks, 5 days, 8 hours, 15 minutes

Back fighting the war against the Nicodemon...

moderator — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 19:18:00 GMT

My name is Ann Marie and 1.5 yrs ago I quit smoking. After a bout of bad days, I picked a cigarette up and lit it. That's all it took. I was so embarrassed and disappointed in myself for going back to that nasty habit. For those of you trying to quit...DON'T think "one won't hurt". ONE is all it takes to go back to smoking.

Now for my new story. I spent 2 weeks back & forth with my decision to quit smoking. I would do good for a day or two, then have a couple cigarettes. I have smoked 19 years...over 1/2 of my life. I have tried to quit about 30 times with little success. On March 27th, 2009, I decided it was time to stop this non-sense and quit for good. While quitting for better health is why most people quit (or in many cases, they find out they are dying from the many years of smoking), that was not one of my top three reasons for quitting and I think one of the top reasons I always seem to fail. Here are MY reasons for quitting:

3 ~ THE SMELL ~ I truly hate smelling like an ashtray. I spend hundreds of dollars a year on perfume to cover up that nasty smell. While I plan on continuing my perfume usage, I have already noticed a decrease in the amount of sprays and frequency of usage as I no longer have to "cover up" anything.

2 ~ THE PRICE ~ A little over 2 weeks ago, my husband went for a carton of cigarettes and came back to tell me they were going up $10 a carton "tomorrow" and another $10 a carton on 4/1/09. While at first I said it must be an April fools joke, I'm glad I decided to take it seriously because they did in fact go up $20 in 2 weeks time. If you are a smoker, ask yourself...would you give away $70 (or whatever a carton is where you live) to a stranger once a week for the rest of your life? Well, would ya? If you're honest with yourself, you would have answered "NO". So why are you paying that much to kill yourself? Is the enjoyment that great? EXACTLY.

1 ~ Number 1 reason ~ FOR SURGERY ~ After 4 years of trying every other pain relief treatment for my back, I went to see a back surgeon in March. He said I am an excellent candidate for spinal fusion and I have more than an 70% chance of success. The catch is he will NOT even consider performing the surgery if I do not quit smoking before my next appointment. As a matter of fact, he told me not to bother coming to my next appointment (next Wed) if I haven't quit smoking. Talk about a wake up call. I am completely out of non-surgical options for relieving my back pain. I go every 2-3 months for trigger point injections and lumbar injections which only help 50% of what they use to. Can you imagine going to the doctor so often that they all know you?

This is what finally pushed me over the edge to say I HAVE to quit NOW.

Scott is also back on the band wagon...trying to support his wife (yes, we married one year ago). It is more difficult for him this time around though.

It has been a week now and I'm already feeling better. My sense of smell is more keen (that can be good AND bad). My breathing is even slightly better already. The cravings are not nearly as bad as they have been in the past (I think the two week game helped a lot).

Ann Marie

I'm scared but determined...

moderator — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 21:48:00 GMT

This is the 4th time I have tried quitting and I am going to do it this time. My Mom just passed away last December and I watched her take her last breath. Not fun. I watch and worry about my Dad who has COPD and still lives in New York. He smoked until he was about 54 - started when he was real young - 8 or 9. My Mom smoked too.

I have a brother who watched his first wife die of Lung Cancer. She literally drowned in her own snot. He still smokes 3- 5 packs a day. Now that the price of smoking is drastically increasing, he is attempting to quit.

All of my siblings smoke. I have no choice. I was just told I have COPD at the age of 47. There is also a spot (nodule) on my left lung that has to be watched for the next 3 years. That means at least 2-3 CAT Scans a year - radiation her I come!!!

Am I scared - very much so. But I will get through it. I have to for my own self preservation. Do I need help to get through it - damn straight I do. I want to be able to meet my grandchildren when they are born.

Heidi

I'm ready but scared of what's next...

moderator — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 06:19:00 GMT

Hello...I have been smoking for almost 10 years now and have been having nightmares about my nasty lungs, encouragement from friends, and the readiness to quit. However, I am very scared to do it! I want to so badly...my quit day is in two days and I'm so scared of failing and not smoking anymore. Did anyone else feel that way?

I am ready to do this...but will need the patch...I'm also scared to death of the weight gain, but know that I have to do this for myself and my future children. Any suggestions for the first days of being smoke free? I feel like I'm jumping off a cliff with no net...Ahhh! Here I go...any help would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks...

karenquits

I'm going nuts...

moderator — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 14:34:00 GMT

I feel like I am going nuts. It is my first few hours of quitting smoking and I can not stop thinking about cigarettes. I am overwhelmed, frustrated, and shaking inside. I just want to get past this. I feel like I am going to quit. This has been the hardest thing I have ever done. I had a stroke and this seems tougher to quit than to recover from a stroke. How do people do it. If I do it I never want to smoke again. Because trying to quit seems impossible. If you agree with me I would like to talk with you.

pegblondin

Ode to the Nicodemon...

moderator — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 10:13:00 GMT

7 Months without a puff - 1 month without any nicotine gum. Feeling pretty good! I have been quit for 7 Months, 3 hours, 31 minutes and 23 seconds (215 days). I have saved $1,976.64 by not smoking 7,530 cigarettes. I have saved 3 Weeks, 5 Days, 3 hours and 30 minutes of my life. My Quit Date: 7/16/2008 12:00 AM

smokelessjoe

Here's a poem I wrote:

I know what you need
another puff of my toxic weed.
I will make you feel real swell
and my fumes will linger and you will smell.

Late at night it is off to the store
desperate for the nicotine score.
Light me up and take a puff
I'll relax your nerves and tell you stuff.

You know I lie but you don't care
to let me go, you do not dare.
I am a strong and powerful drug
and you are my pathetic nicotine slug.

I can do with you what I like
for I control your inner psyche.
I'll take your heart, lungs and breath
but I'm not happy 'til I claim your death!

You make feeble at attempts to quit
but you succumb to your nicotine fit.
But there is one thing that makes you die
the Quittersblog.com people who try!

Light at the end of the tunnel...

moderator — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 06:18:00 GMT

Day 18 without my nicotine lozenges; I am totally nicotine free. I was on a 12 week program but I extended it to 6 months (use of gum and lozenges). My nicotine receptors have been kicking and I have been very edgy. It sucks to be fighting so hard so far into a quit; this is a big hurdle. Did a few 5 mile hikes at Hidden Valley trail at South Mountain this week. Lungs are feeling great, body is healing well. The final hurdle is the psychological war with the NICODEMON! Breaking all denial and reservations and becoming a true non-smoker. It should start getting easier soon! There is a light at the end of the tunnel. I don't have to smoke myself to death! There can be life without a cigarette!

smokelessjoe

I have been quit for 6 Months, 2 Weeks, 3 Days, 22 hours, 58 minutes and 10 seconds (201 days). I have saved $1,855.47 by not smoking 7,068 cigarettes. I have saved 3 Weeks, 3 Days and 13 hours of my life. My Quit Date: 7/16/2008 12:00 AM

Should I keep track...

moderator — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 00:17:00 GMT

Kind of a question that's been in and out of my brain for a while that I'd like everyone's help with: do I continue to keep track of how many weeks I've been smoke-free, or just pat myself on the back for 100 plus weeks and let the weeks go by uncounted? Let me know what you all think!

Betsy

There is hope...

moderator — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 17:32:00 GMT

A note of hope for all you Quitters! I wish to share with you that this is a very special day for me - it marks my 2 and 1/2 year anniversary without NO CIGARETTES!

I believe that you can achieve this goal too. You can do it!

Barbara

Happy "Smoke-Free" New Year...

moderator — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 03:47:00 GMT

Happy Smokefree 2009 to all! Many people make New Year's resolutions to quit smoking; tell us how it is going? I was around a lot of family members smoking over the holidays but held on and did not take the first puff. I am working on re-training my brain to realize that I am not giving up something I am missing, but rather something that is very harmful and life threatening. The NICODEMON dies slowly, but he does die!

I have been quit for 5 Months, 2 Weeks, 4 Days, 20 hours, 39 minutes and 22 seconds (171 days). I have saved $1,578.95 by not smoking 6,015 cigarettes. I have saved 2 Weeks, 6 Days, 21 hours and 15 minutes of my life. My Quit Date: 7/16/2008 12:00 AM

smokelessjoe

Taking it slow and trudging along...

moderator — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 02:31:00 GMT

Still smokefree and feeling better. Still hard to believe that I haven't lit up a cancer stick in quite awhile. I'm getting used to it, breaking a 24 year habit of pathetic smoking. I'm taking it slow, trudging along, and I am not given into the lies of nicotine. Not one puff, ever!

I have been quit for 4 Months, 2 Weeks, 3 Days, 19 hours, 30 minutes and 3 seconds (139 days). I have saved $1,284.51 by not smoking 4,893 cigarettes. I have saved 2 Weeks, 2 Days, 23 hours and 45 minutes of my life. My Quit Date: 7/16/2008 12:00 AM

smokelessjoe

My first 24 without one...

moderator — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 14:47:00 GMT

Today is my first 24 hours without a cigarette, I tossed and turned last night so much that my husband said, "just go have a puff on a smoke; it won't hurt you that much, just to get the cravings out of your system"..I DIDN'T..I yelled at him and said, " NO I WANT TO QUIT, I'm tired of my lungs hurting" ..I found myself crying so much and I feel like I'm going to explode inside. The cravings are driving me crazy.

Tina B.

Four months is in sight...

moderator — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 17:31:00 GMT

Approaching 4 months, I saved over $1,000 and over 4,000 butts not ingested into my heart and lungs. Smoking for over 20 years does not go away easy, I still am constantly thinking about smoking. Not really cravings but the psychological war against the NICODEMON. It's all about retraining your brain and letting go of tobacco. It won't help him, I know that. I am hoping he will fad away as time passes. I am still using the 2mg lozenges, taking lots of walks, and walking around with my fake cigarette. I am doing it!

I have been quit for 3 Months, 3 Weeks, 2 Days, 22 hours, 12 minutes and 20 seconds (115 days). I have saved $1,065.04 by not smoking 4,057 cigarettes. I have saved 2 Weeks, 2 hours and 5 minutes of my life. My Quit Date: 7/16/2008 12:00 AM

smokelessjoe

Times are tough, but I'm still smokefree...

moderator — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 22:32:00 GMT

Even though I'm living at a homeless shelter and have had plenty of temptation to pick up the habit again, I haven't! Should I be proud of myself? I think so! I'm at 98 weeks no smoking!

Betsy

Stepping down...

moderator — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 06:46:00 GMT

Trying to decrease the nicotine replacements slowly to avoid withdrawls. Switching from 4mg to the 2mg lozenges. Had trouble getting off the relacements on my last quit and went back to smoking. Still battling the nicodemon in my brain. Taking lots of walks with the dog. Enjoying the baseball playoffs, GO Phillies! No longer smoking between the tense innings.

I have been quit for 3 Months, 3 Days, 23 hours, 32 minutes and 4 seconds (95 days). I have saved $881.80 by not smoking 3,359 cigarettes. I have saved 1 Week, 4 Days, 15 hours and 55 minutes of my life. My Quit Date: 7/16/2008 12:00 AM

smokelessjoe

Some fresh air...

moderator — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Still not smoking, enjoying the benefits. Fresh air, clean lungs, more energy, good tasting food etc. Still chewing up the nicotine gum. Confidence is growing. I have been quit for 2 Months, 2 Weeks, 5 Days, 16 hours, 51 minutes and 2 seconds (80 days). I have saved $741.44 by not smoking 2,824 cigarettes. I have saved 1 Week, 2 Days, 19 hours and 20 minutes of my life. My Quit Date: 7/16/2008 12:00 AM

smokelessjoe

Two years and counting...

moderator — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 06:46:00 GMT

July 2008 Marked two years of a smoke-free life. Before I quit, I was smoking two packs of cigarettes a day and I smoked for close to 20 years. I can honestly say, I love being smoke free! Personally, I can't even stand the smell of cigarettes anymore, and I have zero desire to ever go back.

I know how tough this is for everyone, and I would just like to offer my encouragement! It gets a little easier every day. Two years later, I hardly ever think about cigarettes. Like I said, I have absolutely no desire to ever go back to smoking!

Hope your journey to a smoke free like is as successful as mine. Good Luck!

Mike

Reality is starting to set in...

moderator — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 06:01:00 GMT

Still "smokelessjoe" without the Marlboro's. Struggling with the reality (the divorce from cigarettes) of never smoking again. Got to train the brain! I have been quit for 1 Month, 2 Weeks, 6 Days, 22 hours, 44 minutes and 23 seconds (51 days). I have saved $477.25 by not smoking 1,818 cigarettes. I have saved 6 Days, 7 hours and 30 minutes of my life. My Quit Date: 7/16/2008 12:00 AM

smokeless joe

Not out of the woods yet...

moderator — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 05:02:00 GMT

Still smokeless and hanging tough. My lungs, taste buds, sense of smell, and wallet are happier. My brain is still not convinced. Taking the dog for lots of walks, exercising, drinking water, and chewing up the nicotine gum. I'm not out of the woods yet, riding the ups and downs, temptations, and lure of the NICODEMON! Who else out there is quitting?

smokelessjoe

I have been quit for 1 Month, 3 Days, 21 hours, 50 minutes and 57 seconds (34 days). I have saved $320.71 by not smoking 1,221 cigarettes. I have saved 4 Days, 5 hours and 45 minutes of my life. My Quit Date: 7/16/2008 12:00 AM

If I can do it, so can you...

moderator — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 14:17:00 GMT

Sharing my celebration with all you who are attempting to quit! Yesterday, August 11th, was my anniversary of being tobacco-free! TWO WHOLE YEARS of freedom from nicotine, after smoking for 50 years!

Now I want to cheer you on because...YOU CAN DO IT TOO. Thank you Maricopa County Tobacco Use Prevention Program and Chantix. Feel free to write me whenever you need encouragement. I believe in you!

Go for it!

Barbara

Putting up a good fight...

moderator — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 07:41:00 GMT

I have been quit for 2 Weeks, 5 Days, 39 minutes and 51 seconds (19 days). I have saved $174.80 by not smoking 665 cigarettes. I have saved 2 Days, 7 hours and 25 minutes of my life. My Quit Date: 7/16/2008 12:00 AM

Still smokefree, approaching 3 weeks. Breathing better, tasting better, and feeling better. Trying not to give into the Nicodemon.

smokeless joe

One day at a time...

moderator — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 20:02:00 GMT

One week, five days, 12 hours, 48 minutes and 34 seconds. 438 cigarettes not smoked, saving $115.15. Life saved: 1 day, 12 hours, 30 minutes.

Saved over $100.00 dollars. Next goals are 500 cigarettes not smoked, then $1,000. One month, smok -free. Not nicotine free, as I use the nicotine gum. Fighting urges daily, making it one day at a time.

Still trudging...

moderator — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 07:47:00 GMT

have been quit for 1 Week, 4 Days, 38 minutes and 13 seconds (11 days). I have saved $101.29 by not smoking 385 cigarettes. I have saved 1 Day, 8 hours and 5 minutes of my life. My Quit Date: 7/16/2008 12:00 AM

Trudging along the road...

The meter is running...

moderator — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 21:17:00 GMT

Here's my quitmeter so far:

Quit Date: July 16, 2008 12:00 am
Cigarettes smoked per day: 35
Cigarettes not smoked so far: 228
Price per pack: $5.25
Money Saved: $59.85
Time passed: 6 days, 13 hours, 3 minutes, 29 seconds As of Tuesday afternoon July 22, 2008

I am keeping the meter running!

Smokeless Joe

Back for another round...

moderator — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 08:32:00 GMT

Trying again, day 5 smokefree. My lungs are hoping for my success as they are tired of the poison. Trying again after a 7 month smokefree stint and other more feeble attempts. Using the gum and taking frequent walks. Nicotine is tough, nasty, and powerful. I finally got enough confidence to blog.

Smokeless Joe

Just checking in...

moderator — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 23:31:00 GMT

Hello everyone out there in non-smoking land! Just thought I would check in to see all the new faces and hoping to see the same faces blogging, it has been over 6 months now for my better half and I and although stressful at times we are still one and will continue to be smoke-free. As I have said in many blogs, I don't ever want to have the need to quit again; it is something I don't wish on anyone. OK, now the weight gain needless to say it shifted a lot but mine weight shifted to my husband, who went through bypass surgery in January, so he is out mowing the lawn and I am going to do my best to help him lose at least 75lbs. I do not want him to have a heart attack! Any suggestions you guys have please let me know what I can do to help him. God bless you all and do the best you can to stay smoke free and keep posting to the blog. Be good out there in non-smoking land...

Summer B

Two years and counting...

moderator — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 21:46:00 GMT

This blog is to give you all hope. Remember Barbara, who gave up smoking thanks to your classes and using Chantix? I am the one who had smoked for 50 years and became smoke free for myself and my grandchildren.

Well kids, I want you all to know that August 11th will mark my two year Anniversary of "Being Smoke Free!" I want to thank Gannon, The Cessation Classes and all my support team for this success. I want you all to know that if I can do it ...you can do it! Go for it.

Barbara

Any suggestions...

moderator — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:47:00 GMT

I haven't smoked for 3 months now. The urges/cravings are still strong, but I won't let them win. I'm determined to stay quit, but am having a very difficult time right now. Any suggestions will be helpful and appreciated. Thanks!

Angelquits

Forever grateful...

moderator — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 18:31:00 GMT

Just checked out this site read a few posts. I'm 8 weeks smoke-free so far and have been taking Chantix. So far I have had no side affects and it seems to be working well. My boyfriend still smokes and I have no desire to be anywhere near him or around him when he is smoking. I wish everyone the best with their battle of conquering nicotine addiction! Also I want to thank the Maricopa County health department for the classes they provided. Denise in Mesa ROCKS and I will be ever grateful!!!

dolphinlvr

Any jobs out there...

moderator — Wed, 28 May 2008 00:31:00 GMT

Got work? I have been job hunting for about three weeks now and it has been hard NOT to want to light up!!! My boyfriend smokes, and I even asked him for one of his Marlboro Reds! I guess the good thing about not working is it's pretty easy to decide between a pack of smokes or super-cheap food for a couple days! Everybody keep your fingers crossed that I find work soon, okay? Thanks!

Betsy

Thoughts on addiction...

moderator — Thu, 15 May 2008 04:01:00 GMT

Hi guys,

On May 5th I celebrated 3 years of quitting smoking. I was addicted to nicotine for many years. With the help of cessation classes, and the patch I was able to beat the addiction. There was a physical addiction, and emotional addiction. I learned to knit to keep my hands busy at all times. I chewed sugarless gum and sugarless candy for several weeks. (whatever works for you)

The emotional part of the addiction is that nicotine numbed my emotions. When I woke up I smoked with my coffee to get going. When I was frustrated at work I knew it was "break time" and went out to smoke. So the thing I do now is deal with the emotions instead of numbing them. One of the most important things I do is to stand up for things I believe in. I stand up for myself now, instead of numbing my frustrations with nicotine.

I encourage you to do the same. Do not let others determine your fate. Stay strong. Believe in yourself. Speak your beliefs, even if some individuals don't like it. It is your life and your lungs. Be persistent in being true to yourself and others.

Sincerely,

Rose C.

Thank you...

moderator — Tue, 06 May 2008 18:01:00 GMT

I wanted to thank our facilitator, Amy (Scottsdale/Shea class) and the program. I've been smoking since I was 15 years old and when my dad passed away in 2006 from lung cancer, it was a reality check for me. I've tried to quit many times on my own but it was so difficult and my friend gave me the phone number to the quit tobacco program. We received Chantix in the mail last week (provided by the program) and we haven't smoked "willingly" since April 29th! (I smoked couple "on purpose" to see how it is. I let the cigarrettes burn out. I don't really feel like smoking anymore!) Thanks for sponsoring this program; every smoker should attend this class.

Thanks again!

Young

Handling the cravings...

moderator — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 10:17:00 GMT

I'm into my 54th day without cigarettes. I have no problem during the day, but around 5 or 6 in the evening I want one. You might know that feeling where you think you could kill for just one!! I exercise and brush my teeth. Anything else? What about those artificial cigarettes? I understand they work something like the patch or gum. I quit cold turkey and have not tried any of the aids. I don't want to put nicotine back into my body but it might be worth trying something on one of those bad nights. I was hoping others might give me their feedback if they've tried any of them.

Heather

Issues with Chantix...

moderator — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 02:46:00 GMT

Anyone out there on Chantix? I don't know what to do. This is day 57 for me. I have been taking Chantix and got so nauseated I had to quit my Fosemax. That did not help much so I cut the medication in half. That helps some but I am always so tired and listless; I feel like just quiting the drug. I am worried if I do I will start smoking again, something I definitely do not want to do. Has anyone else had problems with Chantix?

Leanna

My first step...

moderator — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 14:32:00 GMT

This is my first step in the battle. I have just made the decision to quit smoking. It's great to know that I'm not alone, but it's still extremely scary. I'm going to start the classes this week. I don't know if I should see a doctor for a perscription or if I should start something over the counter like gum. This is not going to be fun...

Quitter111

Just checking in...

moderator — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 21:01:00 GMT

Hi! Nothing earth shattering to tell everyone about, just wanted to say "hi, hello everyone". On Thursday, I'll be at 72 weeks not smoking. How are the newbie's doing out there?

Betsy

Wish me luck...

moderator — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 02:17:00 GMT

Well, I just wanted to write and get some moral support as I am only beginning the classes and hopefully on May 10th I will receive my chantix. So wish me luck!

shyone

Thank you...

moderator — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 00:31:00 GMT

I want to take a few moments to say, "Thank you to Maricopa County Department of Public Health and to Gannon," you all rock my world!. I will be ever so grateful for giving all of us this wonderful chance to reach out and touch someone; I really never knew what a blog was but now you can't keep me off of it! The testimonies that you read are real, heartfelt, and will some day touch or teach someone. I just wanted to say thank you and I will not let you, my friend, my family, or myself down.

Summer

I'm already feeling better...

moderator — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 14:32:00 GMT

On April 20th it will be 3 months since I quit. Yes, I feel better (no more cough) and now I can hold my grand-nephew. Unfortunately, I've gained 5 pounds and cigarette smoke still smells good to me! I wonder when liking the smell will turn to disgust?

For those of you struggling to quit, get Chantix! It really helped with the cravings. I really suggest reading up on side effects of quitting. If I knew then what I know now, I would have done it while taking some vacation time from work. My mind was kind of fuzzy and I was constipated to the nth degree! That's all gone away now. My PA assures me that my skin will even get better with time. I do notice that the wrinkles above my upper lip are not as severe. A great benefit!

I love this blog. It's so great to read everyone else's stories.

Petmom

Life gets better...

moderator — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 20:30:00 GMT

Hello everyone.

Just wanted to thank everyone for their support. Life gets better everyday I wake up. Still a non-smoker and will always be. Trust me once you quit, I mean really quit with no cheating as a closet smoker, you will understand why we will never go back. We are lucky to have each other and still have our friends. My husband is lucky to have life and he would not if he continued. So I support him and anyone else that is trying not to smoke. It does not always work for everyone but for those that do, stay strong and just walk away. POST TO THE BLOG and you will have all the support you need

I have a t-shirt that says, "I am a designated non smoking area" and I wear it proudly. I still see friends that smoke and it is my decision, they are gracious and understanding and I so appreciate it. I know about secondhand smoke and stay downwind haha; go out and breath Maricopa air and you have just smoked a cigarette and don't even know it. It is was it is. Thanks again to all of you supporting the non-smokers or the wannabees, they need us as much as we need them.

Summer

Good luck to all of you...

moderator — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:46:00 GMT

Hello everyone. I am joining this blog because I am a recent quitter, 21 days as of this blog, and although I do not have Internet access at home I will try to keep active. I want to say that no matter how pathetic it might seem, for a smoker to quit tobacco addiction is and will be the biggest thing in his or her life. I have smoked tobacco for 28 years and the future looks wide open without a cigarette in my hand. I never wish to have to do this ever again so for me right now I call me Neo (not even one). I would highly recommend the classes offered by Maricopa County to help quit, but not if you are just playing, you have to do it, quit, smoke no more, be angry, be energized and be prepared to go it alond. II will tell you now, a non-smoker who has never smoked will never have experienced the misery of being a smoker and the other smokers in your life will not be happy to see you escape from the misery, no matter what their words may be. Good luck to you, fellow tobacco quitters, may your dreams all come true.

David

It's been a tough road...

moderator — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 00:45:00 GMT

Hello all you non-smokers or wannabe's. Life has been a real struggle and I am doing all I can to get over the addiction. No, we have not smoked but so want to or knock the crap out of each other, which ever comes first. It has been a tough road and difficult for us to stay strong. As hard as it may seem to just walk away, in the long run you will not be disappointed. I have never been on drugs but my doctor told me the addiction is worse than heroin; OMG just make it go away! I want to be happy again and be nice to my family and friends. I'm 55 and trying to practice what I preach and just walk away.

Summer

P.S. Thankyou Beth & Bill and 99.9 KEZ for letting us talk, you are the best (ding! ding!)

What's on your mind...

moderator — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 23:01:00 GMT

I threw away my pack at work; I work grave yard. I can't think of a harder thing to do right now. I do it out of boredom. While at work and at home I use it as an excuse for stress. It's going to be hard to stop. Been doing it a long time...

Charlie

Let's get together...

moderator — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 02:16:00 GMT

We all need to get together somehow, someway and file a class action lawsuit against these tobacco companies. Why do we have to wait until a family member or friend comes down with lung cancer to get together and STOP THE ISANITY?? I am so desperate to take them all down. In the 40's it was tobacco and chew and in the 50's it was a cool thing to do; come on we have all seen it, in the 60's it was bad, the 70's got worse!! Where are we today? In full addcition that is not our fault, we were cohersed and made a subject, not of redemption, and fed them [cigarettes] for 50 years; everything they needed to succeed in this world. I have 6 grandchidren and yes the parents smoke; I was not a good teacher because the addiction was so strong I did not know, but baby I know now and for the love of God and my conviction I will do all I can to help you, "just walk away".

Summer

Thank you Q-Club...

moderator — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 00:01:00 GMT

Just wanted to say "thanks" to the Q-Club for allowing me to express the feelings that we all share regarding smoking; thank you so much for picking me as KEZ's Biggest Quitter for February. The last time I won something was at the Jack La Lane Gym, ha-ha! Now I am telling my age, but how cool is that to win something - such a spectacular gift for quitting smoking like a 75-minute massage at Moss Spas, no less - whoo hoo! Be good and stay smoke-free another day, before you know it you won't ever want it again. Be good out there in Non-Smoking Land

Summer

Just walk away...

moderator — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 02:01:00 GMT

Hi everyone out there in Non-Smoking Land!

Life is good and I'm still a non-smoker. I have never been there but have been told that quiting smoking is like quitting drinking; 12 steps takes you down to one. You can never have just one cigarette or one drink, you can't - that's it, face it. Instead, indulge yourself into a new life and trust me, after the anger I looked at the MONEY I was giving to those high-priced companies feeding into my frenzy. No thanks. So if I can get my children or anyone to quit, wow I have made a mark and it is not a headstone. I will do my best. Be good my friend and just walk away. Trust yourself.

Summer

Today was the day...

moderator — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 13:45:00 GMT

Today I quit!!!!! I had three cigarettes left, it was 5am, I went out, took a couple of puffs on one, smashed the rest and dumped them in the garbage bin in the alley. Nightime is going to very hard as I do not sleep well and am often up at 3 or 4am. I have always gone out for a smoke to relax. This night I paced and paced knowing the smokes were outside so I had to get rid of them. I am have been on Chantix but only for a week and I don't notice much reduction in craving but hope springs enternal. I have smoked for over 40 years. This is very hard and it is only my first day.

Colleen

Hello out there...

moderator — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 16:31:00 GMT

Hey and hello to my non-heathen friends out there!

It's been way too long since I've written; I hit a streak of bad luck in October and I'm still digging my way out of it. Happily I'm STILL not smoking! I'm at 63 weeks, I think, or 64, I should write it down. I'm still writing my weeks in my planner book of how long I've been quit and still putting a smiley face next to the number. It does feel kind of good to keep track of it. Yeah, I have had some moments when I really really wanted a smoke, mostly because of stress and feeling lonely, and once because of a very good pasta meal; I just recognized that I wanted the smoke and said it out loud how much I wanted to smoke right then, but I kept walking with Quincy and after a few minutes, the craving passed. Yippee!!! I like this new website and I hope everyone else is doing well!

Betsy

Help for the ruff spots...

moderator — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 19:02:00 GMT

I have quit several times; the longest was two years. Needless to say I'm smoking again...I hate it and I'm ready to quit but just need someone to talk to through the ruff spots. I know I can do it; I always felt better not smoking, more energy and not huffing and puffing anytime I do something.

Terri

What a miracle!

moderator — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:22:00 GMT

Chantix is a miracle! I tried to quit so many times and was unsuccessful. It has been 2 months and I feel so much better!

DS

Liberated by Chantix...

moderator — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 21:39:00 GMT

After 51 yrs of smoking, I thought I was going to die a smoker. It feels really bad when you can't control your life. Chantix gave me the chance and today I am liberated.

Mboe

Still smoke-free and going strong...

moderator — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 16:14:00 GMT

Hi everybody. It's Rose. It is almost 2 1/2 years......yes YEARS, since I quit smoking with the help of Maricopa County's quit classes where I got 50% off the patch which, for me, was very helpful. I smoked for over 15 years. The combination of the classes, support, and also the patch helped with the withdrawal from nicotine. I was completely addicted to cigarettes. At least a pack and a half a day. I encourage anyone thinking of quitting to give cessation classes a try. The patch worked for me, but maybe something else will work for you.

I am SO THRILLED that I don't smoke anymore. I don't have the smokers cough (that I always said was just allergies......or pollution.....or I must be catching a cold....). Mostly though, I am hopeful for my future. I feel my chances for a healthy future are much better now. I love to breathe. I save tons of money, and finally, I am just so darned proud of myself. I am proud of you too!!

Rose

I'm proof you can do it...

moderator — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 00:20:00 GMT

As of October 11, 2007 I have been smoke free for 14 months. I wish to encourage all of you out there who are trying to quit, that you too can do it! I credit the Maricopa County cessation classes and Chantix for helping me become successful. The support of friends and family also adds to your commitment. Best of luck to all of you!

Barbara

Setting my quit date...

moderator — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 01:19:00 GMT

Good for you Ann Marie!!!!! WOW!!

My quit date was September 12th. I am actually doing fairly well. I could not decide on which help product to use, so did the "cold turkey" thing. It really has not been that bad. I do have a smoking house guest right now, but I don't find that as difficult as I had anticipated. I think the thing is that I don't want to smoke; this does make it easier. I won't say that I haven't cheated, but it reinforces my not smoking. I have a whole new image of myself .

Martha

Smoke-free after 50 years...

moderator — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 19:27:00 GMT

I had my annual check up with my doctor last week. We celebrated a very special date. I would like to send more thanks to you reminding you of what we all accomplished on August 11th of 2006. Yes, the smoker who puffed her life away for fifty years is still SMOKE-FREE as we approach my anniversary date.

I was so underweight due to the stress of my husband's illness and passing. I am happy to report that during this year I have come from 92 pounds up to 112 pounds. I look and feel so much better. Two friends have also gone on Chantix saying that if Barb can do it after fifty years, so can they! And they did!

I will turn seventy in November. Now I am looking forward to a longer, quality life without cigarettes. I hope my story can help others who are attempting to be SMOKE-FREE. By the way, it is interesting how much money I have saved:

- $4.69 estimated retail price per pack of cigarettes
- cost per year at 1 pack per day: $1,711.85

I truly appreciate your program.

Barbara

It's back!!! Just wanted to share my recent adventures without the Nicodemon.

moderator — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 18:13:00 GMT

It's been three weeks, three days, 20 hours, 48 minutes and 6 seconds. 497 cigarettes not smoked, saving $128.56. Life saved: 1 day, 17 hours, 25 minutes and I have had my struggles.

There are times I wanted to cry and other times I have been filled with so much anger I could barely hold it in. I know the road to recovery is far from over but as time goes on, I believe as long as I remind myself what my triggers are, I will be able to avoid smoking. My partner also quit so he could be a good support person for me. I can't thank him enough for being a true partner. I know in the long run, he will be better off without the cigarettes but I often feel guilty for being the reason he quit. I didn't ask him to quit but he knew how many times I've attempted to quit and was unsuccessful, mostly due to the lack of support around me.

A special thanks to my boyfriend Scott, my family and the Maricopa County Tobacco program for being a good support team for me!

Ann Marie

The "blog" is back...and we think for the better!

moderator — Tue, 21 Aug 2007 15:00:00 GMT

To those of you returning...welcome back! To those of you here for the first time, welcome to Quittersblog.com.

Due to circumstances out of our control, our previous Web site was lost. However traumatic this may have been, we looked at it as an opportunity to give our site a face lift; we think you'll find the new Quittersblog.com to be more user-friendly and full of new, exciting features.

For starters, you'll notice we no longer have individual pages for our bloggers. Instead, all of the entries submitted to Quittersblog.com will be posted to the same main page in chronological order. This will make it easier for new bloggers to get involved right out of the box and give visitors an opportunity to view the entries of multiple bloggers simultaneously.

Next, you can "subscribe" to entries and comments. What does this mean? By subscribing to an entry or comment you are asking us to notify you via email when someone else comments on your entry or previous comment. Don't worry, you can unsubscribe to this service anytime you want by simply clicking the "unsubscribe" link in the email you receive. However, we think you'll really like this feature.

Another feature of the new Quittersblog.com is the ability to search all the entries and comments for certain keywords. For example, if you're wondering if anyone is talking about Chantix just type "Chantix" in the little white box and click "Search". Voila! All of the entries and comments with the word "Chantix" will be displayed. Pretty cool, huh?

As with any new Web site there will be growing pains and things we'll probably change as we go. With this in mind, we welcome your comments! Please email us your thoughts via the "contact us" link in the "navigate the blog" section on this page, or any of the "email us" links throughout the site.

Again, welcome to Quittersblog.com...happy blogging!

P.S. We are in the process of trying to recover entries and comments from our previous site and will make every effort to manually add these to our new site as we move forward.