Inspiring others to quit smoking

Story: Emma Msigiti

Naz had been a smoker for many years and often had thoughts of quitting but he didn’t believe he’d be able to do it.

After seeking support from The Community Stop Smoking service, Naz has now managed to kick the habit and hasn’t looked back since. Naz is hoping his success will inspire others to quit.

When did you first start smoking?

I was 9 years old when I first tried a cigarette and by the age of 11 I was a regular smoker. I remember feeling cool when I used to hang around in Abbeyfield Park, smoking with my friends!

When did you feel that smoking was becoming a problem?

Thoughts of quitting had been on my mind for the past few years. I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes 8 years ago, and although the GP and nurse at my local surgery kept advising me to quit, I just didn’t think I could do it.

What made you take the first step to have a go at quitting?

I really wanted to be a better role model for my 2 daughters and felt that all the money I was spending on cigarettes could be used to make a better future for them. I also knew that I was putting my health at risk if I carried on smoking. On one of the visits to my GP, he mentioned that I could get one to one support to quit from the local stop smoking worker. I thought having a bit of help may make a difference so I decided to give it a go.

How confident were you about stopping smoking?

Not at all! As the date of my first appointment approached I felt nervous and anxious about stopping, and lacked confidence in being able to do it. My friends and family were also very doubtful about my chances of success and didn’t believe I would stop.

What helped you stay smoke free?

The combination of the weekly support sessions and the stop smoking medication helped me a lot. At the support sessions I was able to discuss any problems I was having, and how to work through this. I found that after the first few days and weeks without smoking, my confidence began to increase and I realised that I could actually live without cigarettes, even though I was going through stressful times. I want to thank my adviser Emma, because if I didn’t get the support and encouragement I don’t think I would have done it.

How do you feel about your success, has it changed your life?

Stopping smoking has been the first step in making other positive changes in my life to improve my health and also to set a good example for my kids. I’ve already started to make changes in my diet as I was concerned about what I was eating. I’ve been working with local health trainer Paul Nash to help me make these changes and also to introduce more exercise. I want my kids to know that anything is possible—if you set your goal you can follow your dreams.

If you are thinking about quitting contact Emma Msigiti, Community Stop Smoking Worker.

Call or text 07847 893134.

Please remember to put your name on the text or leave a message at The Furnival, on 0114 272 7497.