About Heather’s quit smoking journey
Heather had smoked for nearly forty years. Like many people who smoke, she had thought about quitting before, but the process often felt too hard or confusing. As Heather began to think about quitting smoking, being more present and healthier for her grandchildren became strong motivating factors for her to take steps to become smoke-free.
However, Heather’s long history of smoking and the cost of accessing quit support were some of the biggest barriers she faced in quitting. Through Cancer Council’s Tackling Tobacco program, Wellways Western NSW was able to support her on her unique quit smoking journey.
Person-centred quit support through Tackling Tobacco
Heather’s quit smoking journey was supported through a relationship built on trust, respect and choice. Together, Heather and her support worker explored what cessation aids would work best for her, with Heather being recognised as the expert of her own life. Her voice guided the process in terms of what she needed to quit smoking, what support felt helpful, and how she wanted to move forward.
You always let me make a choice and you always get back to me.
Heather, reflecting on the quit support she received from Wellways Western NSW
These small but meaningful actions helped build Heather’s confidence and reinforced that she was not alone in the process.
Free NRT helped remove a key barrier to quitting
Through Tackling Tobacco, Cancer Council NSW funded Wellways Western NSW to facilitate access to free nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) for all their clients. This meant that Heather was able to try different NRT options without worrying about the financial barrier. The removal of this financial barrier also gave her the space to concentrate on the emotional and physical aspects of behaviour change.
Among the options available to her, Heather found what worked best. Holding up her nicotine mouth spray , she shared with a smile: “This is the one I like.”
That sense of choice and control became an important part of her progress. Heather was supported to find a quit smoking approach that worked for her.
Improving health, wellbeing and connection
Since accessing quit smoking support, Heather has been able to focus more fully on her health and the future she wants with her family. Heather’s smoking cessation journey has supported her physical health, while also improving her mental wellbeing.
Since accessing quit support, she’s experienced reduced stress levels, boosted confidence, and strengthened relationships with the people who matter most to her.
On her veranda, freshly dyed hair thanks to her granddaughter April, Heather took a selfie that captured more than just a moment she wanted to celebrate with her family. It showed pride, connection, and a renewed sense of self.
Supporting people to quit smoking in ways that work for them
Heather’s story is a reminder that quitting smoking is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Tackling Tobacco is a program that other community mental health organisations can tailor for their clients. For Heather, having access to practical help, such as free NRT, and compassionate and respectful support from Wellways Western NSW made quitting smoking feel more achievable. Today, her grandchildren continue to be a strong motivation for her smoke-free future.
With the right support in place, Heather is proving that change is possible, not just for herself, but for the future she wants with her grandchildren.
