David and George’s Story

“We calculated we could save around £6,500 between us over a year, which is unbelievable, so we have treated ourselves by booking a holiday to the Maldives.”

David Reay from Newcastle, decided to make one last attempt to quit after smoking for 40 years. His success has inspired his partner, George Eggleston, to quit too.

David explained: “I had tried several times before using vapes, patches, and nicotine gum but nothing seemed to work. Then I heard about Champix and went to my local stop-smoking service for their advice. After talking to them I realised that it’s about finding a quitting aid that works for you, but you also need to want to quit.”

Although David, 55, and his partner George, 47, decided to try and quit together – it took George a second attempt before he could finally shake the addiction for good.

Civil servant, George, said: “I tried Champix at the same time as David but unfortunately I was unsuccessful. However, after seeing how successful David has been, it spurred me on and gave me the determination to try again too. I’m determined this time and it has now been over six weeks.”

Quitting has been life-changing, and not just for their health. The pair are now planning a reward for their incredible achievement.

David said: “Looking back I realised I have spent thousands of pounds on cigarettes over the years. We calculated we could save around £6,500 between us over a year, which is unbelievable, so we have treated ourselves by booking a holiday to the Maldives.”

For George, it’s not just his physical health that has improved. His stress levels have dropped too.

He said: “When you smoke you often don’t realise that smoking is making you feel more stressed. This time since quitting I’m feeling a lot less stressed, a lot less anxious and I’m not feeling like I need a cigarette all of the time.”

Both agree – the best way to give up for good is just to keep trying.

David adds: “I feel fantastic. My message to anyone who wants to quit smoking is just don’t give up, keep going and keep trying. If you really want to quit, you will succeed.”