Maree's magnificent achievement!

Maree quit after 40 years, if she can do it, so can you!

I first started experimenting with cigarettes back in the early 70's (when I was 11 years old), the days when smoking was advertised on TV, magazines, billboards at the MCG.

By the age of 14 l was a smoker. If you were out socialising and somebody offered you a cigarette and you said "no thanks", you were classed as anti-social and looked down at. It was a courtesy to except a cigarette offered to you.

Cut a long story short, 6 months ago, having smoked for 40 years, I decided to quit cold turkey. I find strong mints help me when l get an urge to smoke, or I drink water. Brushing my teeth also helps.

Also l have started adult colouring books, l find that helps. I also found deep breathing helped to relax me. It's easier to give up these days because a lot less people smoke than in my day.

I will never ever go back to smoking again. Other advice l would give is to tell people around you who smoke that you are giving up smoking and if they could refrain from smoking around you while you're in your early stages. I had great support that understood and praised me. A few friends even gave up with me.

Also the My QuitBuddy app was really good and checks up on you daily. There is a community chatroom on the app, so you can talk to others about your journey giving up smoking. And share ideas, don't worry if you trip up, just go back the next day start over again.

The more you give up smoking the better, you get at it! I hope this helps, good luck everyone!