Debra Noel

I hope you are still there and haven't gone and bought any cigarettes. My own opinion is that when you quit smoking, it is fairly common to gain some weight. This is usually only for the first couple of months and will eventually go down. IN regards to having one every now and then, I think is counterproductive. I quit smoking on Jan. 2/2002. It has been almost 12 months. I had one relapse in Sept 2002 after a major stressful event happened. I had two cigarettes back to back and told my boyfriend to give them away, which he did. For me, it was definately a set back, but a minor one because I haven't had any since and really don't think I will. When I quit before - 7 months - I had relapsed and just kept smoking. I have gained some weight, but I look healthy. Many smokers who quit can stand to gain some weight. In addition, when I quit smoking, I began exercising a lot. In fact I started running because this was always something I couldn't do as a smoker. Since last Jan. I have ran 2 half marathons and am now training for a full one. Remember, it gets easier. If you can get through the first few months you are on a roll. It is also important that you replace the addiction with a hobby or exercise program. YOu can do it!!