Following previous successful campaigns, the Frome Medical Practice is once again supporting this year’s national 28 day Stoptober Challenge, when smokers are encouraged to kick the habit.
In 2012, 160,000 people successfully completed the Stoptober Challenge.
Patients at the Frome Medical Practice already have the benefit of a specialist Stop Smoking Drop-In Clinic which runs every Tuesday from 4.00pm to 6.30pm. One to one appointments can also be made for any time Mondays to Fridays. On hand are trained and experienced advisers. The service is free.
One of the advisers at the clinic is health care assistant Emma Yeo. She said, “We have managed to help scores of people give up smoking. One of our successes is Jeff Beasley. Like many people, Jeff started smoking in his teens. His tale is a familiar one. On several occasions he tried to give up on his own but was unable to do so as he became aware of the effects of smoking and his health.
“He then decided to come and see us at one of our Tuesday evening clinics in August last year. He attended 12 weekly sessions as our trained stop smoking advisers monitored his progress and provided help and support on his journey.
“A year into his smoke free life, Jeff’s respiratory health has improved and exercising is much easier, including long distance walking. Those who know him also say that he looks so much better. There is also the financial benefit which at 20 cigarettes a day comes to a staggering £2800!”
The final word however rests with Jeff himself. He said, “If I were to be able to speak to someone beginning to quit smoking, I would say do not be put off by failures, but just keep reminding yourself of your reasons for taking such a positive life step.”
For further details about Stoptober and the Stop Smoking Drop In Clinic visit www.fromemedical practice.co.uk or call 01373 301301.
