Hi Susie!

Originally posted by Offthegrid:

To anyone who's quit, what has worked? What should I do as a friend? What doesn't work? Any words of wisdom?
I am very happy that your friend wants to stop smoking. She has to REALLY, REALLY want to stop, in order to be successful, long-term.

My stop smoking "quit date" was March 16, 2003 .

I WAS a very addicted, heavy smoker. At least 2 packs/day. I have an "addictive personality".

I found help through the American Cancer Society. I decided to call them to see if they had any programs to help people stop smoking. I was connected to a smoking cessation counselor (Anita), who helped me immensely. I made the decision to use the Nicoderm patch to help. <<-- The patch really helped me! My husband, Ben, was extremely supportive .

I REALLY, REALLY wanted/needed to stop smoking. I couldn't walk 1/8th mile without being terribly out of breath!

To "take place of the cigarette" (hand to mouth thing), I used cinammon sticks (the kind you put in hot apple cider ) & lollypops. I think that these two things were key (for me, anyway).

I think it would be very nice of you to purchase some cinammon sticks & lollypops (tootsie roll ) for him/her. That way, when they've made up their mind to "try and stop", you can show your support by giving those "stop smoking" helpers.

It's one of the hardest things I've ever done, but it really is one of the most rewarding things I have ever done. The smell of cigarette smoke sickens me now !

I wish your friend (and anyone else who is trying to stop smoking) much luck in their attempts. I know that their heart & lungs will LOVE THEM!

Peace & love to you and yours,

Denise