A Story of Numbers After my eighth serious quit attempt in three years, it finally took. Support from the QuittersWin group and mindful use of NRT (nicotine replacement therapy) helped me finally sever the chains from my 45-year, pack-per-day addiction. I noticed a difference right away! By the end of day two smoke-free, I was …
While Black history should be accurately taught and celebrated every day, Black History Month is a perfect time to spotlight the fact that smoking is a social justice issue as well as a global health concern. The Tobacco industry has a well-documented record of target marketing to marginalized communities. “These tactics have serious consequences. African …
#ICOVIDQUIT Rodrigo recognized that all aspects of his life got better when he quit smoking. Sure, the physical/medical benefits can be exciting. I’ve watched people get so healthy after quitting cigarettes that they were able to safely stop taking medications for hypertension, diabetes, asthma, and other medical conditions. But the non-medical benefits may be equally …
#ICOVIDQUIT Patanisha decided to try and quit smoking when her doctor explained the increased risk she faced from COVID-19. While quitting was undoubtedly one of the hardest things she’s ever done, it’s also been one of the most rewarding. I LOVE what she says about quitting boosting her self-esteem. For over 20 years I’ve been …
#ICOVIDQUIT The benefits of quitting may surprise you. Katie is very happy that she took this step – especially now! Maybe a pandemic is a reason to do it, rather than an excuse to wait. Listen to Katie’s calm courage: “It’s a feedback loop. When I would smoke, the feedback loop was, “I’m stressed, I don’t know …
#ICOVIDQUIT People with courage enough to even try to quit smoking in the midst of a global pandemic are brave souls indeed, Hassi found a clearer mind, clearer voice, and clearer conscience. It’s hard and it’s worth it! Here’s his story. Get the support you need. Quitters are still winning – even in the midst …
You know how much I love music. You know I think music has the power to shift moods and change the complexion of our days. You know I think we should make music a regular part of our daily routines. So… Why doesn’t QuittersWin have an anthem?! Well, I don’t have a good answer except …
Some of the groups I facilitate each week are Tobacco Cessation groups. I’ve listened to the voices in the meeting and I’m sometimes surprised by the amount of laughter in our soundtrack. Bear in mind that as I report this, the world is grappling with remnants of a global pandemic. My country is facing some …
No, this post is not about extraterrestrials. That may be a conversation for another day. But in a very healthy way, most of us are better when we’re connected to others – especially others who understand our situations. And I don’t mean someone who can whine with us and be miserable with us and complain …
Mistakes aren’t the worst things that can happen to you. Doing nothing is a mistake! If you keep moving, keep trying, one of these days you’ll get there (especially if you get some competent advice and compassionate support along the way.) So don’t fret if you slip, stumble, fumble, or fall. At least you know …
There is a dynamic tension present in strong structures, successful relationships, and in effective communities. And while seeming obvious at first glance, exploring and valuing the connectedness between pieces of a machine, partners in a relationship, and members of a community. The “glue” or “mortar” that binds must have a more or less equal bond …
Having the right tools for a job changes everything. When you think about positive changes you’ve made in your life, what was helpful? Consider sharing some of those “tools” with others. Your tip or support could change someone’s journey from “impossible” to “possible.” Sharing your experience can empower and inspire others! And maybe sharing with …
