17/10/2025
Amazing Feedback on our local stop Smoking service from a mother who quit in pregnancy and remained Smoke free three months after her baby was born!
'Before I was pregnant, I smoked more than 10 ci******es a day. Working in healthcare, I knew deep down that I probably shouldn’t smoke. I saw how my patients who smoked often looked haggard, wrinkled, and carried the smell of smoke, and had yellow teeth. Yet, I also noticed that not everyone who didn’t smoke was necessarily healthy. So I had an excuse not to give up.
When I found out I was pregnant, I knew I needed to make a change. I was aware there was support for issues like drinking and drugs, but I didn’t realize help was available to quit smoking. Fortunately, my lovely midwife referred me to a to***co dependency advisor. At first, it sounded a bit intimidating, but she called me and arranged to meet. That meeting was a turning point.
What truly made a difference were the ‘mini counselling’ sessions. They gave me the tools and confidence I needed to stay committed, and they worked wonders.
I was worried I might gain weight after quitting, but I haven’t noticed any change in my eating habits. Quitting smoking has also freed up a lot of time—no more stopping to smoke—which has made my daily routine smoother. Smoking used to punctuate my day, but now, without cravings, I can focus better on my job and my family. I feel less distracted and more present, and I believe I’m doing my job more effectively.
Our children are happier because we’re less lethargic and more engaged as a family. I’ve transitioned to using the lowest strength v**e juice (5mg), and my partner stopped smoking at the same time. We’re both proud to have created a healthier, smoke-free home environment. Smoking is behind me, and I have no intention of going back.
Since quitting, I’ve saved money, gained more quality time with my children—no longer stepping out for ci******es—and I can now run up and down the stairs without getting out of breath!
This journey has truly transformed my life.'
