Thinking about my aunt with cancer

Hi all,

I haven't had a ciggie since Saturday night. Really craving them tonight. But I am determined to stay off them because I just think of my poor auntie and my uncle as well. My aunt who has suffered so much with cancer, extensive surgery to get rid of stomach cancer, chemo, suicidal ideation and now she has extensive gum disease and she has to have all her teeth removed. She is only 64.

She was always my young, pretty, fit glamorous aunty. But she was a pack a day smoker and in her late 30's she started to drink alot as well. She is now 41 kgs, and thinks she won't see her grandchildren grow up. She adores them. Such a tragedy, she has been a great mum, a great aunt and doting grandma. I am not over exaggerating, she looks terrible and looks terrified all the time. She just wouldn't stop smoking.

We all need to stop smoking and do whatever we can to remain stopped. Putting up with cravings, is alot easier that the very real possiblity of developing serious cancers and illnesses.

Oh, my uncle is dying of emphaseyma. He is stuck in a nursing home and can't go out visiting at all without oxygen. I was told a while ago, his daughters, my cousins, cry when they visit because he is very distressed not being able to catch his breath.

So, I think of aunty Ron and uncle Paul, and my older friend who also smoked, and how painfully sick they are. I know the cravings will eventually go. I will be patient. These cravings will not beat me this time. I can quit and I will quit.

Good luck everyone. Stay strong and think of the benefits and all the things you have to look forward to.

Thanks for all the hints and inspiring stories. Thanks so much.

Cheers

Liz