Smoking

[Mr. Atoz]

I've never been what I call a heavy smoker. I've never even be tempted to smoke cigarettes. What I do is cigars. About once a month, I'll buy a package of five, and that's pretty much it. The thing is I'm starting into my 50s and I really shouldn't take chances with high blood pressure or throat cancer anymore. But I can't seem to shake the habit.

Does anyone have a suggestion?

[Niemz]

I quit smoking after 22 years, then started chewing...

[Thallassa]

Chewing? Yuck!

Don't cigars have more nicotene in them that cigarettes? Even if you smoke less often, you're hurting your heart. The only suggestion I can make from my vantage point is that you need a friend to help you out. From now on, I'll expect you to keep us updated week by week on how you're doing. I'll be here to remind you that you've decided to stop and bawl you out if you slip up. And naturally I know you won't go behind our back and smoke without telling us, because a Starfleet officer never lies. Does he, Captain?

[Niemz]

I will look forward to his weekly report!

[Mr. Atoz]

Do you really think someone can quit by willpower alone? Well, I'm game to try it. The last cigar I had was on Halloween night, October 31st. So if I can get through Thanksgiving without lighting up again, I'll be doing good.

Other friends suggested a nicotene patch, but I don't think that would do it. It may be hard for a non-cigar smoker to understand, but it's the entire experience -- the texture and smell of the wrapper, the taste of the smoke, just watching it curl up into the sky and drifting away. My favorite time is just before bed. I go outside and look up at the stars while I have my cigar. I can still go outside, but I feel like I'm missing something.

Well, as I say, I'll try it.

[Thallassa]

The Captain Atoz I see in the stories you write would certainly be able to stop a habit which he knew was bad for his health (especially if he had Diane Weir to help him!). I think willpower is enough as long as you have the support of a trusted friend. Tell you what -- next time you get the urge, just pretend that I'm there with you, reminding you of the danger. I have few enough Trekkie friends. Please don't make me lose one before his time!

[Mr. Atoz]

Thank you, I'll keep that in mind. The first week without a cigar is usually pretty easy to get through. Going into the second week now, and I find myself starting to think about it. Holding strong, though.

[Thallassa]

Stay strong. I'm rooting for you!

[Mr. Atoz]

Second week over. I'm starting to feel a tickling sensation in the back of my throat. It's used to that hot cigar smoke. But I think I can handle it.

[Thallassa]

You can do it!

[Decind]

I smoke half a pack a day, and I have no plans on stopping any time soon. Bad habit, but there are worse things out there.

[Decind]

But good luck on quiting the cigars. Not trying to tempt you. I have stopped cigs before, but it is tough. They say cold turkey is the best way to quit. Good luck, you can do it.

[Mr. Atoz]

Third week, starting to really miss it. For me the really hard part is I get depressed during the holidays coming up and smoking calms my nerves. I know it's going to be hard getting past Thanksgiving, to say nothing of Christmas!

[Thallassa]

Holidays do get hectic around here, so I sympathize. But don't let that be an excuse. If you need more incentive, think of our other private topic of conversation. The answer is Yes!

[Decind]

Did you try any smoking cessation devices? Gum, patch, lozenge, etc.