I was referred from the hospital after being rushed in with heart failure. The hospital provided me with products to help and once I left, I was then supported by One Life Suffolk’s Stop Smoking Team. The shock of nearly dying gave me the push to want to stop smoking. I had been smoking 20 a day for 53 years.

The Stop Smoking Service provided me with products for 12 weeks and ongoing support on a one-to-one basis. I also used patches and lozenges to help, and over time I reduced these down to become nicotine free. I found the service very helpful and recommend it to anyone looking to stop.

My activity level has improved but I still have ongoing problems with my breathing due to COPD. I wish I had quit years ago.

I have also found financial benefit from quitting and have more spare money for treats.

I have been smoke free for 1 year and after a recent echo heart examination, my heart function has improved from 40% to over 70%.