Watch Nigel’s Story

To watch Nigel’s story, click the image above.

Nigel is from Conisbrough, Doncaster. He started smoking when he was 26. A few years ago, he noticed that his breathing was becoming more of an issue day-to-day. He had issues with wheezing, rasping and coughing, especially when he was out walking or trying to fall asleep. He and his wife discussed some of the issues he was facing and decided to create a smokefree household to help them both stop smoking.

“Now I don’t smoke, I have more of a spring in my step.” 

Nigel knew of the free local smokefree services in Doncaster because of his role in public health. Due to his busy schedule, he opted for support over the phone and via email, rather than in person. He was relieved that he didn’t have to commit too much of his time going to appointments in person.

As well as having phone calls, he would receive a text message from his advisor early in the morning and in the evening. This made him feel motivated and encouraged, and he would respond to the messages with an update of his progress, which helped him feel more accountable.

“I’ve got a lot more energy now. I’m not gasping for air after I’ve gone 200 yards. I feel free, I especially enjoy the feeling of freedom in nature when I’m walking my dog Betty.”

When he spoke to his advisor, Caroline, he discussed the symptoms he was most concerned about, in particular the wheezing. This helped Caroline work with him to provide the most suitable personalised treatment plan. Nigel was provided with a prescription, sent to him via text message, for Nicorette mist, and he found this kept his cravings at bay. When he was going on holiday, Caroline made sure his prescription included enough mist to last the duration of the trip.

“Caroline, my advisor, was like a guardian angel on my shoulder. She explained that the support would be completely personalised to me. It was reassuring knowing there was somebody there at the end of the phone, but there’s also somebody there if you need to go and see them in person.”

After his mum passed away, Nigel felt stressed and returned to smoking momentarily. Caroline was very understanding and non-judgmental. This made him feel at ease as she reassured him that this slip-up during a difficult time was all part of the process of quitting. 

Since stopping smoking, Nigel is no longer wheezing and coughing, and he is happy to have more energy for longer walks with his dog, Betty.