The new year is a time for new beginnings. So why not kick off the new year, and the new decade, by investing in a new you; a new you who is free from tobacco addiction. Canada’s annual National Non-Smoking Week runs from January 19th to 25th. As part of the event, the Middlesex-London Health Unit is not only encouraging those who smoke to get the support they need to quit for good, it is urging those who don’t smoke to never light up.
One of those potential motivators is the Ultimate Break it Off Challenge, combining the efforts of Health Canada and the Canadian Cancer Society to inspire young adults between the ages of 18 and 29 to quit smoking and stay smoke-free. Challenge participants must register by February 6th in one of three categories: quitting smoking, staying smoke-free, or supporting a friend in their quit journey. Draws for cash prizes of $1,000, $500, and $250 will take place on March 20th, 2020. Those interested in taking up the Ultimate Break it Off Challenge can register at https://breakitoff.ca/.
“Every January we talk to people who are either trying to get tobacco out of their lives, or are planning to make a quit attempt. It’s important to remember that while quitting smoking can be hard, the payoff of improved health and well-being is worth the effort,” says Linda Stobo, the Middlesex-London Health Unit’s manager of Chronic Disease Prevention and Tobacco Control. “If you’re ready to quit, there are supports available to help you make it happen.”
In addition to the Ultimate Break it Off Challenge, health units across southwestern Ontario are sharing inspiring stories from people who have been able to break free from their tobacco addictions. Through the Start Your Quit Story campaign, indivdials across the region have shared stories about quitting smoking. One of those people is Matthew, who tried to quit many times over the years, before succeeding in 2013. He says that ultimately, the victory over tobacco is worth all the earlier failed attempts. To watch Matthew’s full story, access tips for quitting and seek out quit services, visit the Start Your Quit Story page on Facebook.
Other free supports are available through:
- Quit Coaches associated with Telehealth Ontario’s quit smoking program, at 1-866-797-0000
- The Smokers’ Helpline online community at www.smokershelpline.ca
- Texting support provided by the Smokers’ Helpline: text iQuit to 123456
- Some doctors’ offices or pharmacies
For more information on smoking cessation support and programs available through the Middlesex-London Health Unit visit: www.healthunit.com/quit.
Media Contact:
Dan Flaherty, Communications Manager, Middlesex-London Health Unit, 519-663-5317 extension 2469 or 519-617-0570 (cell.)
Spokesperson:
Linda Stobo, Program Manager, Chronic Disease Prevention and Tobacco Control