Posted by Jess
on 11/12/2004, 9:44 am
42 Years of smoking, and I decided to quit yesterday, rather than wait until New Year's eve.
Two weeks ago, a diagnosis of emphysema at my annual pysical prompted this decision. I WAS going to wait until New Years to quit because that's when my husband wants to quit. But yesterday I experienced a strong 'gut feel' - It's TIME!!
My doctor prescribed Wellbutrin (150 mg) for two months before the actual quit, then kick it up to 300 mg at New Years when I do the quit. I don't like the feeling I have on Wellbutrin after only a week++ of taking it, so I'm going to try to quit without any pharmaceuticals or NRT's - just good old 'cold turkey'.
I have never "really" tried to quit before. Since I work for a Drug & Alcohol Residential Treatment Center, which is based on the 12-Step Program, I understand the power of support, and I do mean POWER! There is such power in the encouragement and empathy that can only come from people who have been exactly where you are.
I don't know how your group works, but guess I'll find out. Just words of encouragement, and stories will help keep me in this determined state. I think to myself at this moment "only 46 hours and the nicotine will be out of my system". Of course, I understand that the craving may continue for a long time.
This is a new journey for me. I've smoked since age 14, daily and consistently. Nicotine is a powerful, deadly drug, that I've considered my 'good friend' rather than the enemy it truly is.
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