A happier and healthier life- Kerry and Keith’s story

Kerry and Keith joined the Leeds Stop Smoking service to kick the habit for good. Hear in their own words what motivated them to quit, how they did it, and how they feel being smoke free.

“Health was our main motivation along with the cost of smoking and how it discoloured our house. Previously, we had both tried to quit before and did whilst we were pregnant for 9 months. However, grief and loss caused us to smoke again. We worried that we would be judged when we contacted Leeds Stop Smoking Service, but we were welcomed with open arms.”

Kerry and Keith opted for the group sessions which can be motivating and rewarding - the support of others who are also quitting smoking with you means that you won’t feel on your own. Alternatively, we offer support on a one-to-one basis, which can be face to face or over the phone.

“We chose the group sessions to complete the programme. The most helpful part has been sitting down, talking and listening to how others are getting through the challenges. Also, it has been beneficial learning about the different products, and which are the right ones to use. The CO readings have been helpful to remind us to stay in the green, safe zone and not go back to the red, danger zone. The service has been helpful, and the group sessions have been great for communicating with each other and it has been interesting to hear each other’s point of views about stopping smoking.”

Stopping smoking is one of the best things that you can do for your health. We are trained and equipped with the latest techniques and knowledge to help you succeed.

“We have now both reached our four-week quit and we feel good! We have more energy and now in the evening, instead of wanting to stay in and smoke we now want to go for a walk! We have also noticed a huge change in our smell and taste. We are planning to save for a nice family home and have saw money in our bank account instead of being overdrawn.”

“We are both planning to Volunteer Now with Leeds Stop Smoking, to support others and give back to our local community. To stay smoke free, we plan to help each other to never have a single puff again and be completely free from e-cigarettes too. Going to back to even one puff is going to jeopardise our health, but our goal is to have a happier and healthier life! “