Hi Jean,
I haven't posted for a while but I couldn't resist when I saw your post. I too quit with the patch, and I got confused when I saw some people taking their patches off or stepping down early etc.
I ended up using the patch as directed. And I'm pleased I did, because after a smoking career of a pack a day for 30 years, I needed that ten weeks to learn how to be a non-smoker. And while the withdrawal was still brutal, especially in the beginning, the patch did take a small bit of that edge off, and in my case I think the patch is the reason I succeeded.
I admire those who can step down more quickly or quit cold turkey, but I do sing the praises of the patch because without it I suspect I'd still be a smoker.
I remember being weepy and fed up and tired, and confused around day 19, where you are....but don't give up. You've accomplished so much already.
I've been off the patch for more than a month now, I'm proud to say, but to this day, I still have trouble believing I actually did it.
You have too! Stick with it and congratulations!
[B]My Milage:[/B]
[B]My Quit Date: [/B] 1/1/2007
[B]Smoke-Free Days:[/B] 112
[B]Cigarettes Not Smoked:[/B] 2,808
[B]Amount Saved:[/B] $1680
[B]Life Gained:[/B]
[B]Days:[/B] 11 [B]Hrs:[/B] 13 [B]Mins:[/B] 22 [B]Seconds:[/B] 23
