Ex-smoker John urges others to quit after health scare

A Hyde resident who smoked up to 35 cigarettes a day for almost three decades is encouraging others to quit smoking this Stoptober after a health scare led to him being diagnosed with the early stages of throat cancer.

John Sutton, 64, went to see his GP after he began losing his voice. After undergoing tests, doctors discovered the beginnings of throat cancer, which he is now being treated for.

Having smoked for more than 28 years, John knew it was time to make a change.

He said: “Since stopping smoking, I’ve found I can walk better, I can smell more and, according to my wife, I don’t smell of tobacco anymore.

“My doctor referred me to Be Well Tameside and they gave me an e-cigarette as I didn’t want to use nicotine gum. It’s really helped because I’ve been able to gradually reduce the amount I’m using.

“I’ve now not had a drag of a cigarette in three months.

John’s message to anyone thinking of quitting is simple: “Do it. It scared me, but you feel the difference very quickly and I’d encourage anyone to give it a go.”

Be Well Tameside has successfully helped more than 300 people quit smoking in the last year. The flexible programme is tailored to suit individual lifestyles, helping residents find the most effective way to stop smoking for good.

The service also offers the Swap to Stop scheme to eligible residents, providing a free e-cigarette starter kit with up to 12 weeks' worth of e-liquid, alongside behavioural support to help smokers quit successfully.

Tameside Council’s First Deputy and Executive Member for Population Health and Wellbeing, Cllr Michael Smith, said: “John’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact smoking can have on our health, but also of the positive changes that can happen when people decide to quit. I wish him all the best for his continued treatment and thank John for taking the time to share his story in the hope of inspiring others to quit tobacco.

“Stopping smoking is one of the best things anyone can do for their health. Not only does it reduce the risk of serious illnesses, but many people quickly notice improvements in their breathing, fitness and overall wellbeing.”

Be Well Tameside provides free and confidential advice to people who live, work, volunteer or have a GP in Tameside. The service offers personalised quit plans, ongoing support and access to stop-smoking aids, including nicotine replacement therapies.

For confidential help to quit smoking, visit www.tameside.gov.uk/bewelltameside or call 0161 342 5050.