ROME – No doubt about it – quitting smoking is difficult. But, no one has to do it alone. Rome Memorial Hospital is ready to give support to break the addiction. Starting Wednesday June 1 the hospital will begin a four-week smoking cessation class.
Teaching the class is Marie Smith, RN, an experienced instructor from Tri-County Tobacco Cessation Center.
“We want to be there to help people succeed in their decision to quit smoking,” said Smith.
Woman Quits Smoking
“The classes offer the information and encouragement people need to understand the addiction and the tools that are available to help them overcome the challenges.”
“As we know, smoking cessation has major immediate health benefits,” added Rome Memorial Hospital Education Director Gale Barone, RN, BS.
“Working in healthcare, we see the adverse effects of smoking on our patients, including various forms of cancer and coronary heart disease,” she said.
According to the American Cancer Society, the moment someone quits smoking, it takes just minutes for their body to start healing.
Barone said that the four-week program will be held at 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, starting June 1 and ending June 22, in Rome Memorial Hospital’s conference room. The program is based on the American Cancer Society’s “Fresh Start” program, which combines information and support to help smokers break the addiction.
Participants may be eligible to receive free nicotine replacement patches provided through The New York State Smokers Quitline. It would be advantageous to call Quitline at before attending the first class to receive the free “start kit” of nicotine replacement patches.
A $10 registration fee for the four-week program is due at the first session. Space is limited and advance registration is required for the smoking class. The class is open to adults 18 and older. Participants should plan to attend all four sessions for best results. Please call Rome Memorial Hospital’s Education Department at 338-7143 by Friday, May 27 to register.
“Research shows that 70% of all smokers want to quit. With some help and determination, people can quit smoking,” Barone said. “Are you one of the 70% that wants to quit and has a willingness to try? If you are, then we at Rome Memorial Hospital may be able to help you.”
