With the start of 2026 comes another chance to take on personal resolutions, and for many New York residents that goal is becoming tobacco-free. The state’s Quitline reminds residents that free, confidential help is available seven days a week, and that thousands of people successfully quit each year with the right support.
Deb P., a 71-year-old Bellport resident, is one of those success stories. Now tobacco-free for more than two and a half years, Deb says quitting changed her health, her daily routine, and her relationship with her family.
Deb first tried smoking at age 15 and became a regular smoker by 16. Over the decades, she made multiple attempts to quit, including hypnosis, but nothing seemed to work. She often smoked a pack or more a day and struggled to believe she could ever stop.
In the spring of 2023, Deb developed double pneumonia and had difficulty breathing and walking. Even then, quitting felt overwhelming. Around that time, she saw a television commercial for the New York State Quitline that made her reflect on her health and on her grandson, who hesitated to hug her because she smelled like cigarettes.
Deb reached out for help and received free nicotine replacement patches and ongoing support calls from trained Quit Coaches. She says the combination was life-changing, helping her break both the physical and mental habits tied to smoking.
Now approaching her 72nd birthday, Deb feels healthier and more energized. She plays pickleball several times a week and enjoys closer, more confident hugs with her grandson. She encourages others not to give up.
Anyone looking to quit can call 1-866-NY-QUITS, visit nysmokefree.com, or access free text support by texting QUITNOW to 333888. The Quitline is supported by the Department of Health and is based at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, helping New Yorkers reclaim healthier lives.