Updated March 26, 2014.

From Gary:

Today marks a new beginning for me. I’ve done something that I never believed was possible. You see, one year ago I stopped smoking. This was my birthday present to me.

I saw how quick the improvements came to me and to tell the truth, I was simply amazed. This wasn’t something where I was waiting to see when I would feel the effects as each day brought me something new and good.

My breathing improved.

Almost immediately I stopped coughing in the morning. I was using six sinus medications a day and blaming it on everything else but smoking. When I stopped smoking, I also stopped the meds because there was no longer a need for them. I went through the winter without a major cold, which for me, was something very unusual.

Back in my six month post, I spoke of the improvements I saw in both my confidence and self esteem. I’ve told many that quitting smoking is the best gift they could ever give themselves. I’ve often said that if you can do this, you can do anything because I believe that.

I was a hard core, power smoker for a long time. Almost the same moment I stopped smoking, new doors began to open for me. Maybe it’s because I have more time to do what I want to do without the bother of running out to have that smoke, or the panic when you find that there’s only two left in that pack and you must run out for more. Or, maybe it’s because I have the pride in knowing that this was something self-inflicted that I beat.

This is me who's in control now, and I knew a long time ago that I wasn’t about to go back to where I had been for any reason.

I’ve lost them all...short term quits and longer. The last one was an eight month quit and it took me nine years to get myself back on track. This time was different because I had the help and guidance of this great forum.

For every moment of discomfort in the beginning, there were more wonderful things that were happening to me that offset the pain of nicotine withdrawal. The good things just kept coming and I began to enjoy this new path I chose to take. I did everything I could to look at my quit in a positive light and tried to have as much fun with it as anyone could have. Even the fights I had with myself about smoking were enjoyable because I won them all.

All in all, this was a very positive experience for me because I learned just who I am. Up to this point I was afraid to use the word "quit", and seldom did, but yes, as of today I’m proud to say that I’m Glad I Quit.

To all the new people, I just want to say to keep doing exactly what you’re doing. Hang in here and make up your mind that this is something you’re going to do and never allow yourself to be swayed. I guarantee that this is something you’ll never regret. Take things just one step at a time, and above all, have faith in yourself. If I can do this, you can too! Always remember that I’m 100% with you because like I said to start with, this is a new beginning for me too.

To the people who rode this out with me, WOW, what a ride, huh? We’re here and I know you will all attest to the fact that even though it does have its rough moments, it’s SOOO worth it. Thank you all for putting up with me. You guys are the best and it’s been both an honor & privilege meeting this challenge with you.

To the ones who came before me and paved this path for me, how can I ever begin to thank you? You laid it all out in the open and showed me everything I needed to know and walked each and every step with me. You taught me and showed me just how worthwhile this venture would be for me. Each one of you has been a true inspiration.

To our great, great Guide and Moderators, you guys do it all! Your timely advice and friendship has seen me through to this day. You all know what it takes to take the edge off of those moments when we all at one time or another have felt like we were on the fence. I only hope you fully understand the good you’re doing / have done. You’ve each promoted a true place of healing. I admire and respect each of you.

To all of you, a forum doesn’t make people, its people that make a forum. You’re all just fantastic people; wonderful, beautiful people, and each and every one of you have had a hand in this great thing that’s happened for me. This isn’t just my Milestone; this Milestone belongs to each of you too. I wish you all continued success and health. I wish for you everything that you would wish for yourselves.

There's been times that I thought
I wouldn't last for long.
But now I think I'm able to carry on.
It's been a long, long time coming
But I know a change is gonna come.
Oh, yes it will!
One year, 4 hours, 44 minutes and 42 seconds. 12781 cigarettes not smoked, saving $1,917.29. Life saved: 6 weeks, 2 days, 9 hours, 5 minutes.

Gary

Yard by yard is always hard but inch by inch is always a cinch.