New member wanting reasurance

[sue943]

I have been of cigarettes for over seven years now, after smoking for about thirty-five years. I went cold turkey. Actually what worked for me was telling myself that I hadn't given up smoking and I could have one whenever I wanted, but that I would delay it just a little longer. If you told me I could never smoke again I would have craved. As I had just been diagnosed as being diabetic I also had to try to lose some weight.

Good luck and try not to worry too much.

 

[Superbob]

Welcome ElizSue,

You're getting some great experience-based advice here. My smoking experience is a little different: I smoked very heavily as a college student and in my early working years, but I quit 40 years ago when I got married. (Just one of my wife's many good influences on my behavior ) .... BUT when I had my surgery 40 years later, I had to spend an extra day on the vent because of breathing problems. I don't know if the effect of smoking can linger so long, but I do know the hospital personnel kept asking repeatedly, "Are you a smoker?"

I agree that you ought to put your highest priority on kicking the cigs totally. As for the surgery, when it comes, you will do fine. It's just that recovery is likely to be easier if you can give up the cigs now. I know it's not easy but it is doable. You likely will still have some residual effects of past smoking, but it will be easier if you can do all you can now to clear your lungs.

All best wishes,

 

[aussigal]

Hi and welcome...
I too was a smoker...My Cardio told me the surgeon wouldnt operate on me if I didnt quit...I wanted that OP (same as you are having) so bad that I eventually got the inner strength to chuck the ciggies away. I was petrified that the "annie" might blow and I would end up as my Dad did ,dead at a very young age . It took me 3 weeks of trying to quit before I chucked the cigs away so just keep trying....you'll win eventually. I did spend extra time on the vent and that apparently freaked me out as well , luckily they had me drugged-up really well so I dont remember it being bad at all.