ABOYNE – For the third year in a row, the number of Wellington and Dufferin residents who took part in the Driven to Quit Challenge has increased.
This year, 864 residents gave up tobacco for a full month as part of the annual provincial Challenge. Last year the number was 648, and in 2009 552 residents participated.
Although the big prize winner of a car went to Brian Perkins, of Brantford, local participants were winners too.
Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health awarded $50 Canadian Tire gift certificates to local winners R. Alton, Anne Marie Blackadar, Sejla Kaukovic, and John Slocket, all of Guelph, Brenda Ayres, of Fergus, and Andre Bettencourt, of Orangeville.
Guelph winner Slocket said, “I’ve tried to quit for the last four or five years. When my mother-in-law quit in February after smoking for 30 years, I decided to try the challenge. Her determination and commitment had a big influence on me. Not smoking has already made a difference. I’m sleeping better and have more energy. I feel healthier and think I’m better role model for my kids.”
Slocket’s observations do not surprise WDG Public Health Nurse Dora Eaglesham.
“In as little as 72 hours after quitting smoking, your bronchial tubes relax, allowing you to breathe easier and have more energy. There are just so many benefits. And it’s never too late. We saw many participants this year over 60 years of age. By quitting they potentially reduced their risk of dying of smoking related diseases by 50%.”
Although the Driven to Quit Challenge is over, there are still resources available to those who want to quit smoking. The Smokers’ Helpline is a confidential service that provides free, personalized support, advice and information about quitting smoking and tobacco use. And a new resource, Smokers’ Helpline Text Messaging (TXT) offers the same services to smokers and tobacco users who are looking to quit, via their mobile device. For more information, call 1-877-513-5333 or visit online at www.smokersline.ca.
