Mark quits smoking at 61, the same age his dad passed from smoking-related disease
He urges other smokers in Derby to make 2026 their year to quit for good
When Mark Seath turned 61, the milestone age at which his father passed away from smoking-related heart disease, he knew it was time to quit smoking himself. Having smoked on and off since the age of 15, with a 5-year stint of quitting in the 1980s, Mark relapsed in 1990 and smoked 20 cigarettes a day ever since. The persistent smoker’s cough and a desire to improve his health were constant reminders of the need for change.
Mark was encouraged by a conversation with Natalie Woodhouse, a Housing Officer for the Intensive Housing Management Team at Derby Homes, to attend a Livewell stop-smoking drop-in session specifically designed for social housing residents. Led by advisor, Charlotte Kenny, the service provides comprehensive support for residents of Derby Homes and other social housing throughout Derby, offering free nicotine products, vapes, and medicines for 10 to 12 weeks.
Charlotte’s friendly and supportive approach reassured Mark and a surprisingly high carbon monoxide reading served as a wake-up call boosting his determination to quit smoking for good. He set his quit date for that very day on 8 October 2025.
In the last three months, Mark has actively engaged in the support sessions held at St Augustine’s Church and St Luke’s, appreciating the guidance from Charlotte and the support from fellow participants. He used mouth spray to curb cravings and directed his energy into music and art, playing the bass guitar and harmonica, and indulging in drawing to keep himself positively occupied.
This January, Mark proudly celebrates three months without smoking. Reflecting on his journey, he shared, “It was difficult at first, but the mouth spray worked well for me. I don’t get any urges to smoke, and my smoker’s cough has disappeared. Charlotte has been brilliant, offering invaluable advice. Watching my carbon monoxide levels drop to those of a non-smoker has been hugely motivating. I’m now saving the money I would have spent on cigarettes for a new bass guitar. For anyone contemplating quitting this year, do it—it’s never too late.”
Livewell advisor, Charlotte Kenny added, “Mark had more reasons than most to quit, having reached the same age his dad passed away from smoking illness. Consistently attending the drop-ins and using the mouth spray, his journey serves as an inspiring example for anyone looking to make positive changes this New Year. Congratulations, Mark, on this outstanding achievement, it’s been a pleasure to support you.”
Inspired to quit smoking?
Social housing residents interested in quitting smoking are invited to drop by for a friendly chat with Charlotte, who has already helped numerous individuals experience the health and financial benefits of becoming smoke-free. Find location and time details on the Livewell website.
Livewell also offers free phone appointments to get started with drop-in sessions all over Derby to pick up free nicotine products or vapes and receive ongoing support. Find out more and book an appointment online on the Livewell website.