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Big milestone on the horizon... Cancel

1. braveheart

   

   1 posts
   Registered:
   18 Dec 2017
   24 Mar 2018

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   On April 18th I will reach what was my mid-term goal when I started this quit and that will be 10 years smoke free. The long term goal of course is to remain smoke free for life. I have felt in control ever since about the 6 month mark but learned from past attempts that one can never let one’s guard down… ever! Realize and rationalize that even 1 puff could lead you back to being under the control of the addition. That is a place I simply refuse to go.
   
   So, I will return to Smokers' Helpline on my 10th anniversary on April 18th to celebrate my milestone and give my final regards to all those currently on their own personal journeys, or as soon after that date as I am able. I will then sign off from Smokers' Helpline with a very great appreciation to this site and the very active members present when I quit who were there for me as together we helped each other beat the habit. Know that it can be done… and that you can do it!  

   Last modified on 26 Mar 2018 11:56 by braveheart
2. treepeo

   

   832 posts
   Registered:
   29 Nov 2017
   29 Mar 2018

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   Hi braveheart,
   
   Sorry it took me so long to respond but I have been pressed for time recently.  And I try to make newcomers my first responsibility.
   
   You must be so happy to be smoke free for 10 years.  What an astonishing accomplishment!  A huge congratulations to you!  All of your hard work and commitment has paid off.  You kicked your addiction to the curb!  Way to go!
   
   Like you, I am deeply indebted to all of the wonderful members of this site.  I may have been kicking and screaming, but somehow, they stuck with me and helped me to get where I am right now, which is about 15 months as a non-smoker.  I never really thought it was possible for me to quit, but here I am.  And I couldn't be happier.
   
   I totally agree with you when you say we can't let our guard down.  We can never be complacent, because that is when we could get into trouble.  So I try to be vigilant at all times.  I still get the odd crave and/or the odd want.  Fortunately, they don't last, and they aren't as powerful as they used to be.  But I do get them occasionally, and I have to fight against them.  Old habits are hard to die.  The good news is that I have created new memories, and will continue to do so, as a non-smoker.  I have no intention of going back to my old ways.
   
   I am so happy to hear of your success, braveheart.  I know that quitting smoking has changed your life for the better in so many ways.  Keep the quit, and thanks for sharing your experiences with us!
3. aurora

   

   94 posts
   Registered:
   08 Mar 2018
   30 Mar 2018

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   hello Braveheart
   
   That is an amazing accomplishment and one that I also strive for.  I have basically wanted to quit smoking since I started, and what a horrible hold it has had on me for the last 35 years.  I have succeeded in quitting for various periods - one week, one month, one year, and even 2 years. And always have ended going back down the slippery slope of one drag, one smoke, one pack......
   I am strong and committed , and my goal is to stay smoke free for life!  in the meantime, my goals are for one more day, one more week, one more year, one more decade.
   
   Thanks for your inspiration!
    
4. marianne, quit coach

   

   278 posts
   Registered:
   30 Nov 2017
   31 Mar 2018

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   Hello Braveheart,
   
   Priceless 10 years around the corner.  You are reaching a decade and going beyond!  We are so happy that you are with us and will be connecting on your 10 year anniversary.  
   
   Looking forward to giving you a huge congratulatory greeting.  
   
   Until then, we are thinking of you as you inspire us all!
   
   Marianne