Episode Four of our series charting Vinnie Murphy's journey to give up smoking, with the help of the HSE’s QUIT team, this week focuses on the valuable freestop smoking programme that the HSE have provided Vinnie in his journey.
Vinnie is not someone who dwells too much on the past and believes you should only take on things that are in front of you, and for all the challenges that he has faced with Dublin football in the past, QUIT is now his most immediate challenge he is taking on.
Like many smokers Vinnie made previous attempts to kick the habit in the pastbut it just didn’t work out. Although smokers can be apprehensive when it comes to seeking help, support will increase your chances of success of quitting for good.
When Vinnie arrives at the Quit Smoking Clinic, he is happily surprised at the measured approach taken by the staff, who tailor a plan to suit Vinnie's lifestyle and listen to his questions and apprehensions.
Via the www.facebook.com/HSEQUIT Vinnie also has access to a massive online community support network, who are always there to provide encouragement when temptation may strike.
One of Vinnie’s motivations to QUIT is to improve his general fitness and well-being, and with a massive relegation game for St Monica's just around the corner he is starting to feel the health benefits of quitting already as his energy levels are getting better with every passing day.
With him being such an integral part and the driving force of his club, he is seriously determined to get back to a level of fitness where he can perform.
If you have been going it alone, why not phone the HSE Quit Team on 1800 201 203 or FREETEXT QUIT to 50100 to talk to an advisor or to find out about your nearest HSE stop smoking service, it might be just what you need to help you give up smoking for good. Follow Vinnie’s progress by checking out Balls.ie's Facebook page where you will get to track his efforts to kick the habit. On that note, you can engage with the campaign by posting updates from your own quitting regime by including #KicktheHabit in your tweets.
