Marco smoked for 33 years and tried to quit many times before successfully quitting with help from his doctor. This is Marco's story.
After a 33-year addiction to smoking, I embarked on my quitting journey fraught with multiple relapses. However, two months ago, a diagnosis of COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) forced me to make a permanent change. I had been experiencing increasing breathlessness for six months, leading me to seek medical attention. Being diagnosed with COPD served as a stark wake-up call.
Determined to regain my health, I turned to my doctor for guidance. He prescribed a quit medication. Surprisingly, it proved to be incredibly effective. Over time, my cravings diminished, and the taste of cigarettes became increasingly unappealing. Eventually, I found myself effortlessly abstaining from smoking. The medication also alleviated the mood swings that often accompany quitting, making the transition more manageable.
My decision to quit was further reinforced by the diagnosis of cervical cancer in my partner two years prior. I had initially quit for eight months but relapsed. However, the fear of jeopardising her health and wellbeing became an unwavering motivator.
This has been my experience with quitting smoking. I share it in the hope that it may inspire others facing similar challenges.
If you are struggling to break free from nicotine addiction, do not hesitate to seek professional help. There are resources available, and medications can significantly increase your chances of success. Remember, it is never too late to quit smoking and prioritise your health and wellbeing.

