AZ Jim
R.I.P. With Us In Spirit Only
- Location
- SURPRISE, ARIZONA
Tobacco is equally harmful no matter the method of delivery, cigars, pipes or chew.
Started smoking 1964. Quit, cold turkey, 1985. At 40 years old, started to have some circulatory issues. Family doctor sent me to a vascular doctor to have some testing done. Doctor did some testing and told me I was free to leave his office. I was surprised and asked him what he thought my problems were. The "crusty old doctor" said, "Son, nothing I can do for you. You're dieing." Hit me like a ton of bricks. I asked what he meant by that. "You've got children you will never see graduate from high school. You've got a wife who will bury her husband at an early age." By that time, I know I was shaking. "You are a smoker. Your body is already rebelling, but you won't listen. You have two choices. Smoke and die early or quit and have a much better chance of living a long life. Son, nobody can make you quit smoking. The only one who can do that is you. Now, go on out of here and get on with your life... what you have left!"
I had never been spoken to like that by a professional. On one hand, I was ready to punch the old doctor. I was so shaken by what he had just said, I know I looked like a zombie leaving his office. Walked out to my truck. Drove home. Took my cigarettes and tossed them in the trash. Have never smoked one since.
In the 35 years since, I have never lost the taste for them. I'm one of the worst critics about second-hand smoke. Yet, have told my wife that when given six months to live, the first thing I'll do is go buy a pack of unfiltered Pall Mall's. She has made it plain that, should that be my plan, I'll spend the last six months of my life... alone!!!!![]()
I quit smoking and drinking on December 4th.,1985. I really wanted to go to college, but we couldn't afford for me to go. Then I realized that if I quit both of those bad habits, I could afford to go part time. After my first semester, my loving hubby told me he was going to quit as well. We saved enough money for me to take three classes a semester.
I continued to go for 19 years, and after the first three years I was able to take four and five class a semester. That was one of the best decisions I ever made.:hitit:
Quit 30 years ago. I would have one right now, but I know the 2nd would be sooooo much better, and the one after dinner would be better yet.
Good for you. I'm always amazed at how many of your colleagues in the nursing profession still smoke.I quit at age 25. I'm so glad I did.