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“Set yourself free”

written by ryCullen413 on 16/06/2014

Week 10 now. Not smoked since day 8. Smoker for 40 yrs, 10 years ago stopped for 2 yrs, was desperate to stop again. Can't believe how easy it has been since end of week 2. Only side effects were headaches and stomach ache if took the champix without food. Took the nurse's advice to take evening dose with my tea as I usually eat early (5pm) and have not experienced any nightmares. My sleep has actually improved and sleepless nights are now very rare. I read lots of forums in the first weeks to keep motivated, I've found them very helpful. One post in particular stood out and I have kept it in my head to keep me on track and not give in. It was in response to people complaining about the side effects and how they had decided to stop the Champix and carry on smoking. They often seem to cite their partner as saying " I'd rather have you smoking than be so depressed, angry, irritated etc etc." he said this- if you think the side effects are too much to cope with, which after 12 weeks will subside anyway, what on earth do you think the side effects of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery for lung cancer are like? That just said it all for me. He is absolutely right. Champix Really does take the desire to smoke away, anything that can part you from the biggest threat to your health has got to be worth a try. Yes we all love smoking, like it, love the feeling of the nicotine hit when we're stressed or happy/ sad/hungry/tired. Any time we haven't been able to smoke for a while, the next one Is always the stress reliever.But the joy when you go out for the day and realise you haven't even thought about smoking whilst you were out, haven't had to find somewhere you could smoke without feeling like a leper. Not having to stand outside at work under an umbrella trying to light one in a gale- it feels fantastic. You are free of this habit that had you as it's slave. What time is it? How many cigs have I got left? Better go to the garage, they'll not last me til morning. Look in your purse- better go to the cash point, need more cigs. And a very good side effect of the Champix is actually looking in your purse- i've always got cash! Look at your bank balance at the end of the month- I feel like I've had a massive pay rise . Sorry this is so long, got to do something with my hands! To everyone just starting - good luck and keep at it. To all of us coming to the end of the 12 weeks- keep motivated & determined to stay an ex smoker for life. To all you that have succeeded - congratulations !