I thought I'd bring this wonderful thread back from the depths as a matter of inspiring the New Year's intentions of those still held by the binds of addiction to smoking.
I quit on the morning of my B-Day Dec. '06. I woke up and went to make some notes re: a TV interview I was watching, I couldn't read my own writing. Frightened, I called my g/f (an MD) and she said my speech was off and that I must have had a stroke (TIA).
Long story short, I had smoked 2-3 packs of Djarum clove cigs/day for 7 yrs.
The night before was the last cig I smoked in my life - scared to death.
I had my neighbor write employee checks for two months.
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Another TIA in March, '10 and angina getting worse.
Vessels too plugged for stents - quad by-pass on May 11, '11
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Pre-diabetic for 6 yrs., full type-2 presently, cancerous thyroid removed last week.
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I must say, if I hadn't had the 1st stroke in '06, I'm not sure I would have quit.
I loved to smoke so much that I altered my life-style to continue. I became a recluse, of sorts (the taboo). The walls in my house took on that beautiful Tuscan cream/tan color.
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So for those of you that are considering quiting, my heart spirit is with you.
For me, I noticed that the temptation lasted for a period of time...if I could just hold out until it passed, I was OK.
That's how I did it.
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Best of luck and good health to all.

Glad you paid attention to the warning sings, Don! Glad you're still with us!!!

Randy

As a physician who has witnessed smoking-related illness, I'll say congratulations to you and to all who have quit. To those who want to quit, just know that some of us who have never smoked can only have an inkling of what it is like to suffer with this addiction. I understand completely that it is no slight matter to be willing to challenge it.

My best to you all.