Trudi, a Wilmslow local has shared how support from the One You Cheshire East Be Smoke Free team helped her stop smoking after many years.
Trudi attended the Be Smoke Free programme at Wilmslow Leisure Centre “I have been smoking for a long time and always wanted to stop but found it hard,” Trudi said. “My health was struggling and my dad had passed away due to smoking, so I thought it was time to stop as I didn’t want to go the same way he did.”
After receiving an email about the service, Trudi decided there was no better time.
“I just thought why not stop smoking as it’s the right time,” she said. “It’s too much money and my health is suffering now.”
Trudi got in touch with the One You Cheshire East Be Smoke Free team and booked her first appointment at Wilmslow Leisure Centre, where she met Natasha, one of the Be Smoke Free advisors.
“Natasha was lovely and easy to talk to,” Trudi said. “She never judged and just listened to what I had to say.”
Trudi had tried to stop smoking before, including using Champix, which helped her stop for 14 weeks. However, with a stressful life, she found herself returning to smoking.
“I have had cancer in the past and have three kids so life can be quite busy,” she explained.
At her first appointment, Natasha talked Trudi through all the options available. Trudi already knew some methods were not right for her. “I had already tried patches, and they don’t work as my skin is sensitive,” she said. “I was not a fan of using a vape.”
When Natasha explained the option of medication, it stood out as something Trudi wanted to try.
“She explained about the medication and that was something I was very interested in,” Trudi said.
Trudi has now stopped smoking and says the medication made a big difference. She also shared how the support has made a positive impact on her health and how she feels day to day.
“I’m really happy with coming onto the programme and getting the support,” Trudi said. “I feel so much better within myself and my breathing has gotten so much better.”
If you would like to find out more, please visit Be Smoke Free – One You Cheshire East or contact the team on 0300 123 5026 or [email protected].