Letter: Help Dad Quit Smoking for a Happy Father's Day

To the Editor:

Are you looking for an original, meaningful, and inexpensive Father's Day gift? If your dad smokes, show him your love by supporting him in quitting smoking. Quitting can take many tries and he doesn't have to do it alone!

If your father is thinking about quitting, start by telling him about the Massachusetts Smokers Helpline. By calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669), he can get free and confidential coaching 24 hours a day, as often as he wants.

Let your dad know you'll stand by him for as long as it takes. Even if he has tried to quit before, encourage him to keep trying – a smoker attempts to quit an average of seven times before quitting for good. Remind him that smokers who get support and use medicines are nearly three times as likely to quit for good.

Quitting smoking is one of the most difficult things your dad will ever do. Tell your dad not to get discouraged. If he slips up, let him know you're there for him when he’s ready to try again, no matter how many times he tries to quit.
To learn more about how you can help, visit KeepTryingMA.org.

Joyce Brewer
Brewer is coordinator of Berkshire AHEC's Tobacco-Free Community Partnership

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