What our patients are saying
Start the conversation shares authentic stories about real patients and clinicians. These stories are about the life-changing conversations patients had with their health professionals that led them to stop smoking.
Christene
In December 2013, Christene was admitted to Sandringham Hospital with an infective exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This was caused by more than 30 years of smoking. Christene had severe airflow obstruction and reduced gas transfer. The doctor who treated her was the first to offer support to quit. Now, six months without a cigarette, Christene enjoys a much improved quality of life.
John
Severe shortness of breath led John to be brought to The Alfred by emergency ambulance in October 2013. He was diagnosed with an acute exacerbation of his chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. A series of conversations in the hospital gave John, the belief for the first time in his life that he could quit smoking. He has been smokefree for almost a year.
Clyde
Clyde presented to The Alfred with shortness of breath and intermittent chest pain. He was diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy and his long hospital stay was followed with many outpatient appointments. During this time, he had numerous conversations with health professionals about his 45 years of smoking. With support, Clyde became smokefree for one year prior to his heart transplantation.
Darryl
Darryl smoked ‘a pack a day’ for more than 45 years, contributing to her chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and other health issues. She had more than 10 unsuccessful attempts to quit smoking before a life-changing conversation with a nurse. Darryl had another ’go’ and has been smokefree for more than eight months.
