I quit smoking a little over 4 years ago, and I must say that I wish I had quit 40 years ago. I feel so much better. I did gain weight, but heck, I could gain weight when I was smoking too. It doesn't take much. :embarrassed2:
Last time we spoke to Jimmy, he did quit the ciggies, and I'm sure he, like me, wishes he had quit years ago. I'm not sure if Jimmy's cancer stemmed from cigarettes, as I believe it is brain cancer. I am learning that a lot of things cause cancer now, even some of the meat we eat. I swear I am on the verge of becoming vegan because of it. I work with USDA from time to time, and some of the bulletins that come out about BSE (cow disease) and other tainted foods, it's scary. In fact, I'd think about growing my own garden in my back yard, but now people are talking about all the mercury that's in the ecosystem. It's like everything is tainted with some harmful or toxic ingredient.
I had a cancer scare late last year, but I think I am okay today, at least at the time of this writing. I have begged Keith to quit smoking, and he just can't do it. He at least smokes outside, so I don't have to smell it. It stinks horrible. The cost of cigarettes here are 7 and 8 bucks a pack.
They say quitting nicotine is harder than going cold turkey on heroin. I'm not so sure. I quit cigarettes with no help. I didn't get the patch or take any pills or chew gum. I just quit. The first month was a little difficult, but once you get over the hump, it is smooth sailing. I love having clean-smelling skin and clothing and hair.
This is one of my favorite pictures of Jimmy and Keith, and I have many. We used to hang out with Jimmy at the pool functions. Of course, there's a ciggie in the photo. We all smoked back then. Jimmy and I don't smoke today. If only I could get Keith to quit.