Martin's story - Stoptober

When Martin Balog’s consultant explained he needed to quit before having surgery on his feet, it came as a surprise. He didn’t realise that smoking can delay wound and bones healing and increase the risk of infection. This news combined with a recent COPD diagnosis reaffirmed Martin's decision to get specialist advice to stop smoking.

Thanks to Livewell’s support and free treatments, 41-year-old Martin is celebrating four months smokefree and is hoping to get the go-ahead for his operation soon.

He is backing the Stoptober campaign which starts on 1 October and encourages people to quit during October. Studies show that if you can stop smoking for 28 days, you’re five times more likely to stay stopped.

The dad of five moved to Derby from Slovakia 12 years ago and has smoked since he was 15.

Struggling with wheezing and coughing, Martin discovered earlier this year that he has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) – a group of lung conditions that causes restricted airflow and breathing difficulties. Smoking is the most common cause, and it usually affects older adults so Martin, who, like many smokers had tried before to stop smoking, decided this time it was even more important to stay quit.

Livewell advisor, Casey supported limited English speaker, Marten to discuss nicotine replacement treatment options, manage his cravings and understand his COPD diagnosis as she explains:

“Martin received his diagnosis at the start of his quit journey. He didn’t understand it fully, so we went through the NHS information together in more detail. He attended the drop-ins fortnightly to collect nicotine patches, have a chat and get a carbon monoxide test so he could see his levels dropping and staying at a safe level.”

Now that Martin is passed the short-term withdrawal stage, he’s feeling better and has saved around £1000 so far. He hopes his story will inspire others, particularly those from Eastern European backgrounds to join the Stoptober challenge and said:

“The nicotine patches helped overcome the cravings and my breathing is much easier now I’ve quit. Casey was brilliant, she explained COPD in a way I could understand and gave me lots of encouragement. The doctor was also pleased with my recent breathing tests. Getting the right support and free products makes all the difference.”

Livewell advisor Casey added:

“Martin had a strong motivation to keep going and he understood the importance of how quitting would benefit his health and breathlessness. He should be proud of his achievement.”

Inspired to quit?

The official Stoptober challenge begins on Tuesday 1 October and people can choose to start their quit up until the end of October as part of the campaign.

However, smokers can quit any time with the help of Livewell, who offer 12 months of free support and stop smoking treatments to Derby residents. To sign up and book a phone appointment to get started, go to the Livewell website.

Livewell has advisors who speak Bengali, Urdu, Slovakian, Czech and Polish. However, all our trained advisors engage with translator services to support people to make positive lifestyle changes.