London, ON – Tomorrow is Weedless Wednesday, the mid-way point of National Non-Smoking Week. This year’s theme is “Breaking Up is Hard to Do”. Because the decision to stop using tobacco is hard, the Middlesex-London Health Unit is offering a number of ways to support those who are willing to give quitting a try.
“For many smokers Weedless Wednesday is a manageable first step toward kicking their tobacco addiction, and it’s even better if we can further motivate and support them in their attempt to quit for good.” says Linda Stobo, Chronic Disease Prevention & Tobacco Control Manager with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “We have the programs and services that can take people who quit for one day to the next level; from days, to weeks, to months, to a lifetime free from tobacco.”
To support people who are ready to quit smoking, but who can’t access nicotine patches or gum, the Health Unit and the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health are hosting three STOP smoking cessation programs in January. The program provides participants with free nicotine replacement products, ongoing encouragement and supports throughout their quit attempt. Educational material is also provided to help encourage participants to make other improvements to improve their overall health and well-being.
STOP workshops will be held in London on January 24th, and in Strathroy on January 25th; limited spaces are available. Those interested in participating must call the Health Unit to determine eligibility and to register at 519-663-5317 extension 2673.
Additionally, for those who are ready to quit, or have already quit since January 1st, there is an added incentive to stay tobacco-free. The annual Ontario-wide Driven to Quit Challenge is underway. Those who stay smoke-free for the month of March could win a new Ford Fusion Hybrid, one of two $5,000 dream vacation getaways or one of seven $2,000 cash prizes. To register, visit www.driventoquit.ca.
For more information about the Driven to Quit Challenge and the STOP Study visit the Middlesex-London Health Unit's website at www.healthunit.com.
Media Contact:
Dan Flaherty, Communications Manager, Middlesex-London Health Unit, 519-663-5317 ext.2469 or 519-617-0570 (cell.)
Spokesperson:
Linda Stobo, Program Manager, Chronic Disease Prevention and Tobacco Control, Middlesex-London Health Unit