Forum Discussion

Hazel_M's avatar
Hazel_M
Member
13 years ago

Is it the right time?

Hi everyone, i am a cigarette smoker and 3 days ago a light bulb came on above my head. Why am i going to go through chemo to give myself a better chance of a longer life, when i have been putting other chemicals in my system to shorten my life? I know this seems ridiculous but seriously it was like WOW, you really are an idiot! Every door that has opened for me at the hospital i am met with,' Because you're a smoker ..' .So i turned to my partner and proclaimed 'i'm not buying another packet of cigarettes'. I have 2 cigarettes at home now and determined not to buy anymore. I told 2 good  friends and they were happy for me, but asked if this was really the best time to do it because i have been so stressed lately. I know  the cravings will be bad and i will get grumpy. My heart is saying the right time is now.My head  is agreeing but seeing how difficult it will be. Any of  you lovely ladies have this problem? Anyone who has had this dilemma? Your thoughts would be appreciated.

Hazel xx

7 Replies

  • Janey235's avatar
    Janey235
    Member
    13 years ago
    I'm not a smoker either Hazel but I'd like to encourage you to quit too. I cannot begin to know how hard it will be for you but we will all be here to cheer you on. Go for it!!! Love Janey xxx
  • Deanne's avatar
    Deanne
    Member
    13 years ago
    Hi Hazel, I have never smoked myself but my Uncle smoked heavily for 30+ years. Then he was diagnosed with bowel cancer. He gave up smoking the day he was diagnosed and never smoked again. So it was the perfect time to give up for him. I might add that he had absolutely no self-control when it came to most temptations in life but I have never seen him more determined. Yes, he was grumpy but we all put up with that knowing it was for the best for his health. So, good luck, don't let others talk you out of what you know would be best for you. Your family and friends need to support you through this whole experience. I agree that getting help from your GP would be a good idea. Deanne xxx
  • Deanne's avatar
    Deanne
    Member
    13 years ago
    Hi Hazel, I have never smoked myself but my Uncle smoked heavily for 30+ years. Then he was diagnosed with bowel cancer. He gave up smoking the day he was diagnosed and never smoked again. So it was the perfect time to give up for him. I might add that he had absolutely no self-control when it came to most temptations in life but I have never seen him more determined. Yes, he was grumpy but we all put up with that knowing it was for the best for his health. So, good luck, don't let others talk you out of what you know would be best for you. Your family and friends need to support you through this whole experience. I agree that getting help from your GP would be a good idea. Deanne xxx
  • Deanne's avatar
    Deanne
    Member
    13 years ago
    Hi Hazel, I have never smoked myself but my Uncle smoked heavily for 30+ years. Then he was diagnosed with bowel cancer. He gave up smoking the day he was diagnosed and never smoked again. So it was the perfect time to give up for him. I might add that he had absolutely no self-control when it came to most temptations in life but I have never seen him more determined. Yes, he was grumpy but we all put up with that knowing it was for the best for his health. So, good luck, don't let others talk you out of what you know would be best for you. Your family and friends need to support you through this whole experience. I agree that getting help from your GP would be a good idea. Deanne xxx
  • Di_BCNA's avatar
    Di_BCNA
    Member
    13 years ago

    Hi Hazel - I don't have any personal experience to offer, but wanted to jump in and say 'go you!' for your determination. If your heart and head are telling you now is the time then I say give it a go!   Also, I second Annie's recommendation of Quit, if you want some support -- they have some really good resources that can help if you find yourself struggling.

    Best wishes to you!

    ~Di

  • Robyn_W's avatar
    Robyn_W
    Member
    13 years ago
    Good on you Hazel!I am not a smoker now,but I used to be.My theory is,that now is THE BEST time to stop.Firstly because you have the best reason,secondly because you have so many other things to focus on at the moment,that it won't be as hard as it usually would be.Throw away the other two as well,and from here on in,put all your energy into fuelling your body with healthy things.Fruit,veggies,water,get out and walk if u feel stressed,and as each day goes by,you will have that peace of mind knowing that you are not consciously putting cancer causing toxins into your body.I wish you well Hazel.I look forward to the blog that says you have done it!!!You can!!!xoxoxRobyn.
  • Annie_Gayed's avatar
    Annie_Gayed
    Member
    13 years ago

    Hi Hazel,

    This is Annie from BCNA. Hopefully there'll be a couple of women out there who are in the same boat and happy to share their experiences with you.

    In the meantime I thought I'd jump on here and shout some encouragement! I think your determination is awesome.

    I have heard from people who have quit successfully who say that their GP helped them a lot. Your GP will be able to work out a plan to help you quit successfully, all the while taking into consideration your chemotherapy treatment.

    Also, the Quitline (13 78 48) offers free phone advice, support and information resources to help you quit. They also have a website with useful information - www.quitnow.gov.au.

    Good luck Hazel. I say don't be too hard on yourself, and if you're struggling, I really think your GP and the Quitline can help. Please keep us updated with how you're going.

    ~ Annie