A nicotine support group has been started at St. Luke’s Hospital for anyone who has stopped smoking recently, quit several years ago, and most importantly, for those who are still struggling with nicotine addiction.

The nicotine support group features a new format in smoke cessation and support with weekly meetings facilitated by credentialed respiratory therapists totaling more than 50 years of experience.

Using the twelve-step concept of Nicotine Anonymous and the American Lung Association program, we can focus on the reasons we smoke and the solutions for quitting for good, after totally admitting we cannot quit on our own.

Many people have quit smoking using this format; it’s widely known that if a person will attend a minimum of five meetings, it could be the start of a new smoke-free life.

The support group will meet each Thursday at 7 p.m. at St. Luke’s Hospital. For information, please call 828-894-9001 or 828-817-2481.

– Submitted by Kathy Woodham